MIYAO EISUKE: A MASSIVE, RARE AND VERY FINE PARCEL-GILT BRONZE TRIPOD KORO AND FIGURAL COVER By Miyao Eisuke of Yokohama, signed Miyao with seal Ei Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Of compressed globular form on tripod feet issuing from dragon heads, the body carved with sinuously coiled dragons amid reishi-shaped clouds as well as two gilt-rimmed roundels in high relief, one with a tiger in a rocky landscape in front of a pine tree, the other with a crane flanked by an immortal holding a fan and an oni carrying a double-gourd flask. The neck with two phoenix handles and carved with two phoenixes as well. The domed cover with a figural group on top depicting a young boy wearing an elaborately decorated robe and hat, trying to hold back a dog that has caught a small bird in its mouth, the boy watching the struggle with great curiosity in his eyes. Signed MIYAO with seal Ei on the boy's back within a gilt rectangular reserve. Note the masterful craftsmanship, particularly evident in the many finely gilt details as well as the slight nuances in patination, creating a mesmerizing composition. HEIGHT 44.5 cm WEIGHT 9.6 kg Condition: Excellent condition with only few minor traces of wear. Provenance: British collection. Auction comparison: Compare with a related censer by the same artist sold by Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 8 November 2018, London, lot 242 (sold for 30,000 GBP).