Antique Japanese Bronze Dragon Vase, Meiji–Taishō Period, Signed Base, c.1900

This is an antique Japanese bronze vase dating to the late Meiji to early Taishō period (circa 1895–1925). The vase features a finely modeled dragon in high relief, moving through stylized clouds — a traditional symbol of power, protection, and prosperity in East Asian art.

The surface is decorated with auspicious characters representing Good Fortune (福) and Longevity (壽), reinforcing the symbolic meaning of the piece as a celebratory or protective object. These motifs were commonly used on Japanese bronzes intended for domestic display or as meaningful gifts during the Meiji era.

The base bears a faint, hand-incised Japanese maker's mark, consistent with small workshop or individual craftsman signatures of the period. The mark was cut prior to final patination and has softened naturally with age. While it is not attributable to a documented named artist, its presence confirms the piece was intentionally signed at the time of manufacture.


Details:

• Height: approx. 6¼ inches