Japan, Muromachi period (1333-1573)The exterior of the cylindric vessel is finely incised with three wrathful Buddhist deities and a poem by Fujiwara no Fuyutsugu (775 – 826). The bronze has nicely patinated into a dark brown, almost black color with hues of malachite green.HEIGHT 23 cmWEIGHT 1029.2 gramsCondition: The base is pierced. Some minor dents, losses, encrustations and wear, traces of use, all as expected from a piece of this age. Some minor casting flaws. Overall still very good condition.Provenance: From the collection of Jacques Bigay, High Commissioner of the United Nations. A French private collection acquired from the above.