A large bronze model of an arched drum bridge (太鼓橋, taikobashi)

Description:

Japan, Meiji Period, 19th c.
176 x 64 x 43 cm
A highly curved bridge span resting on solid support foundations, constructed using traditional mortise-and-tenon joints, with a walkway composed of cross-laid planks. On both sides run curved railings, commonly referred to as kaidan or karamochi.
From the collection of Dr C. Duisberg, acquired on his journey to Japan prior to 1930 - In his travel diary (p. 43), Dr. Carl Duisberg recounts how, during his journey through Japan, he discovered and was able to acquire a remarkable bronze group in the garden of Yamanaka in Kyoto. Among its elements was this elaborately crafted bridge. In his entry, he describes his find as follows: “This is an artistic representation of an old Chinese legend. On a steeply arched bridge sits a warrior on horseback, named Ko Sekko.”
Regrettably, the bronze depicting the mounted warrior was stolen from the park in 1951. A report dated 22 January 1951 documents the theft and outlines the unsuccessful attempts made by the criminal police to recover the piece - Partial age damage and surface change due to many years of presentation in the park
Taikobashi, or arched drum bridges, are distinctive features often found in front of the torii gates of Shinto shrines in Japan. With their bold, rounded curves, these bridges are rich in symbolic and aesthetic significance. Traditionally conceived as paths traversed solely by the kami-the deities of Shinto belief-taikobashi act as both physical and spiritual thresholds. They span the kekkai, the dividing line between the secular world and the sacred shin’iki precincts, and thus serve as stage-setting structures that encourage introspection and reverence before entering holy ground. Though their dramatic incline can deter casual passage, during festivals, these bridges become vital ceremonial routes, such as when a mikoshi (portable shrine) is carried across in ritual procession.
This lot is subject to standard taxation: a premium of 24.5 % will be charged on the hammer price. Statutory VAT is payable on the hammer price plus premium.