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Japanese Meiji Bronze Hanging Lantern with Enamel Flowers, circa 1880

$5,457.28
£4,085.40
€4,800
CA$7,702.13
A$7,941.33
CHF 4,477.53
MX$101,643.72
NOK 51,625.34
SEK 53,997.07
DKK 36,610.17

About the Item

An exceptionally rare and highly atmospheric Japanese bronze hanging lantern from the Meiji period, dating to circa 1880. This remarkable lantern is distinguished by its substantial construction, sophisticated craftsmanship and extraordinary sculptural presence. Executed in richly patinated bronze, the spherical body is surrounded by an elaborate openwork composition of flowering branches, leaves, blossoms and buds, creating a fascinating interplay of light and shadow when illuminated. Selected flowers and buds are delicately enriched with polychrome enamel in subtle shades of blue, pink, white and green. Rather than dominating the composition, these restrained touches of color appear almost jewel-like against the deep, naturally aged patina of the bronze. The remarkable weight of approximately 4.5 kg / 9.9 lbs reflects the substantial quality of its construction. Every aspect of the lantern demonstrates the considerable craftsmanship associated with fine Japanese metalwork of the Meiji period. Particularly fascinating is the circular threefold botanical emblem incorporated into the decoration. Its composition is closely related to the Japanese tradition of mon family crests and bears a notable resemblance to motifs of the Mitsuba Aoi tradition. While an exact heraldic or family attribution cannot be established with certainty, the emblem forms a particularly intriguing element of the lantern’s distinctly Japanese iconography. Ingeniously Concealed Access Door One of the most exceptional details is an entire circular section of the elaborate floral openwork that functions as a concealed access door. Almost invisible when closed, the door is integrated directly into the surrounding flowering branches and retains its original hinge and rotating locking mechanism. This sophisticated construction originally allowed access to the interior and demonstrates the extraordinary attention given not only to the decoration but also to the functionality of the lantern. The upper section is crowned by a dramatic, deeply formed bronze roof resembling a monumental stylized flower. Its sweeping, gently upturned edges lend the piece an unmistakably Japanese architectural character. The substantial hanging chain further enhances its impressive sculptural presence. Originally Non-Electric – Recently Electrified The lantern was originally conceived as a traditional non-electric hanging lantern and therefore would not originally have required a modern ceiling canopy. It has recently been professionally electrified for contemporary use and is now equipped with new wiring and an E26/E27 socket. A newly made ceiling canopy has been added and carefully finished to harmonize visually with the historic patinated bronze. For complete transparency, the interior of the modern canopy was intentionally left in its natural metal finish, making the contemporary addition immediately identifiable. Once installed, this surface is concealed against the ceiling. The historic character of the lantern therefore remains visually undisturbed while allowing it to function beautifully within a contemporary interior. Condition The lantern presents beautifully with a rich, naturally aged patina and expected signs of age consistent with an object dating from the late 19th century. There is one minimal old crack to the bronze in the area of the circular access door, at an old connection/join. It is stable, does not affect the function, operation or structural integrity of the lantern, and is clearly documented in the photographs. The electrical components, E26/E27 socket and ceiling canopy are recent additions, as described above. An Exceptional Japanese Statement Piece When illuminated, the openwork bronze construction creates an extraordinarily atmospheric effect as light passes through the dense network of branches, leaves and blossoms. The small areas of colored enamel emerge subtly from the dark bronze, giving the lantern a remarkable depth and jewel-like quality. Despite its considerable decorative complexity, the design remains beautifully balanced and elegant. It possesses the timeless quality characteristic of exceptional Japanese craftsmanship: classical yet sculptural, highly decorative yet sophisticated. More than simply a light fixture, this is a rare piece of late 19th-century Japanese decorative art that combines craftsmanship, history and functionality. A truly distinctive statement piece capable of bringing exceptional warmth, atmosphere and character to both classical and contemporary interiors. Origin: Japan Period: Meiji period Date: circa 1880 Materials: Patinated bronze, polychrome enamel Height of lantern without chain: 37 cm / 14.57 in. Overall height including chain: 74 cm / 29.13 in. Maximum diameter: 35 cm / 13.78 in. Weight: approx. 4.5 kg / 9.9 lbs. Socket: E26/E27 Electrification: Recently professionally electrified; socket, wiring and ceiling canopy are modern additions.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 14.57 in (37 cm)Diameter: 13.78 in (35 cm)
  • Power Source:
    Hardwired
  • Voltage:
    110-150v,208v,220-240v
  • Style:
    Meiji (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Bronze,Enamel,Cast,Enameled,Hand-Crafted,Patinated
  • Place of Origin:
    Japan
  • Period:
    1880-1889
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1880s
  • Condition:
    Rewired: Recently professionally electrified. New wiring, new E26/E27 socket and new ceiling canopy. The canopy was carefully finished to visually match the original bronze patina. Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use. Very good antique condition with beautiful original patina. Minor age-related wear. One small, stable old crack near the access door, documented in photos and without effect on function. Recently professionally electrified.
  • Seller Location:
    Hannover, DE
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10125251325122

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