A characterful Japanese Bronze and multi-metal dish depicting an Owl (Circa 1880)

A characterful Japanese Bronze and multi-metal dish depicting an Owl (Circa 1880).

From our collection of antique Japanese fine metalwork from the 19th Century, this characterful Bronze dish with multi-metal decoration of an Owl foliage.

The scene in this particular dish depicts an Owl, tethered to a stand. The bird an unwitting protagonist in the ancient Japanese sport of Takagari, (a form of Falconry).

Falconers would use the Owls to attract song-birds, who would in turn gather round and mob the tethered bird in an attempt to intimidate it. The arrival of small flocks of song-birds provided the Noblemen with a readily available and off-guard group of Prey to hunt with the Falcons and Hawks.

All this perhaps explains the rather perplexed and nervous expression on the Owls face.

Offered in fine condition. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for further information or to arrange a viewing.

Dimensions

Price on application

This object is eligible for a Certificate of BADA Provenance

Condition report

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