Vase: Daoist Immortal on Water Buffalo

"A richly and finely carved Japanese vase, bamboo, with the body covered overall with various birds, the shoulder with an ornamental band, key fret motif on rim of mouth, the foot carved and scalloped, height 11 1/2 inches. Dating is late 19th Century, Meiji Period (1868 - 1912).

Naturalistic and mythological birds play an important role in the arts of the Far East. In Shang bronzes many species of birds are represented, among which are the owl, a symbol of night and darkness, and the pheasant, standing for light and sun. Mythological birds include the phoenix, which is associated with the Empress and is often a decorative motif worn on garments. Numerous birds have been represented in Japanese paintings and have been used to form decorative designs.

Bamboo (Bambusa arundinacea ) is the most difficult wood to carve. It is as hard as horn, although it is hollow and segmented. It is lustrous and it ranges in hue from lemon yellow to black, with warm tones in cherry red, tortoise-shell, mahogany, as well as variegated hues. Bamboo represents longevity because it flourishes throughout the winter; it is highly prized." - Bernie McManus, Appraiser, Woodbury House, Connecticut, 9/7/2000.

10/20/2006: "Vase- ovoid cross-section. Duck (or goose?). Sparrows or finches, scissor-tailed songbird, long-tailed songbird with crest, large crested long-tailed bird (pheasant?). Acanthus (or 1/2 chrysanthemum) on neck- stylized; more naturalistic chrysanthemum on foot. Carving, piercing, staining. Bamboo stain." -Unknown, no date