Small Animated Pond With Rabbit, Bird, Birds And Butterfly - Japan - Edo Period (1868-1912)

Small animated POND with RABBIT, BIRD, BIRDS and BUTTERFLY
Japan, Edo period (1868-1912)
Copper and brass
H. 7 ; Diam. 11 cm 
(slight old damage)

This bowl with its filleted neck and globular body is decorated with five animals and insects applied to a sand-blasted background. One can distinguish a rabbit, two birds, a peacock and a dragonfly. Some of the details are enhanced with gold.

The choice of these zoomorphic figures has a strong symbolic meaning. The rabbit (usagi) - probably the white rabbit - refers to dedication and intelligence, the plover (chidori) - represented twice - is the manifestation of determination and longevity, the butterfly (cho) symbolises evolution and transformation, while the dragonfly (tombo) echoes strength, courage and victory.

The number 50 is handwritten on the foot. 

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

Ref. number : 2908