{"product_id":"large-japanese-meiji-bronze-figure-sounding-a-conch-shell-c-1880-1900","title":"Large Japanese Meiji Bronze Figure Sounding a Conch Shell, c.1880–1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eA substantial Japanese bronze figure depicting a ceremonial figure sounding a large conch shell trumpet, dating from the Meiji period, circa 1880–1900.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eModelled standing upon a naturalistic base, the figure is shown raising the conch shell to his lips in a dramatic act of invocation or announcement. The richly ornamented costume is cast with exceptional detail, incorporating dense floral and scrolling decoration, while the expressive face and dynamic pose give the sculpture considerable presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn old dealer's label accompanying the piece identifies the subject as \u003cem\u003e\"Titan Calling the Elementals\"\u003c\/em\u003e, a romantic title which captures the theatrical character of the work, although the precise identity of the figure remains uncertain. Conch shell trumpets have long been associated with ceremonial, religious and martial traditions throughout Asia, where they were used to summon, signal and announce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStanding approximately 42 cm high and weighing an impressive 5.8 kg, this is a substantial and visually striking bronze displaying excellent decorative impact from all angles. The surface has developed an attractive aged patina which highlights the quality of the casting and modelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn unusual example of late nineteenth-century Japanese bronze sculpture, combining strong decorative appeal with an intriguing and enigmatic subject.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Exentric Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57871617294668,"sku":null,"price":495.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1013\/0689\/2620\/files\/IMG_9038.heic?v=1782222659","url":"https:\/\/exentricantiques.com\/products\/large-japanese-meiji-bronze-figure-sounding-a-conch-shell-c-1880-1900","provider":"Exentric Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}