Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Both wooden vessels are finely painted in high relief with three-clawed dragons amid swirling flames and clouds in gold and dark brown lacquer on a russet ground, the latter cleverly sculpted and lacquered to imitate the trunk of a tree. The matching bases are fixed to the brush pots but separated by raised border made in imitation of bamboo. Also note the finely inlaid eyes of the dragons.HEIGHT 34.5 cm eachCondition: Good condition with some old wear, traces of use as well as minor dents and touch-ups.Provenance: From a British private collection.