A substantial pair of Japanese carved bamboo floor vases dating to the late 19th century, produced during the Meiji period (circa 1880–1900).
Each is formed from a natural bamboo section deeply carved in relief with robed scholar figures beneath flowering branches. The blossom heads are individually applied mother-of-pearl discs secured with small bronze pins, now showing traces of verdigris.
Inset carved bone masks are incorporated within the scenes, finely detailed and well toned. The bamboo surfaces show good age with natural darkening and shrinkage typical of the material.
Both stands sit on separately carved hardwood bases in an organic root form, securely fixed to the bamboo bodies.
Pieces of this type were produced for the Western export market and functioned as decorative umbrella, walking stick or brush holders.
A striking surviving pair with strong scale and presence.
Condition:
Good overall with age-related wear and minor bamboo shrinkage splits and minor loses consistent with period examples.
Height 61cm
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