A bronze lantern (灯楼, toro)

Description:

Japan, Meiji Period, late 19th c.
H. 43 cm
Round light chamber on a slightly flared base resting on four feet in the shape of oni heads. Archaising decoration on the wall with stylised dragons and four openings carved with characters. The lantern roof (kasa) in the shape of a stylised lotus leaf, crowned by a tâmâ.
Acquired by Bayer AG from Bernheimer by Carl Duisberg prior to 1930 - Partial age damage and surface change due to many years of presentation in the park
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.