Toba On His Mule, In Cloisonné Bronze

Exceptional sculpture of Toba on his mule

Japan, Meiji period (1868–1912)

Cloisonné bronze (Shippo-yaki)

Dimensions:

• Height: 38 cm
• Width: 30 cm
• Depth: 17 cm

A magnificent and rare Japanese cloisonné bronze sculpture depicting Toba on his mule, one of the most iconic subjects in Japanese art inspired by the great sages of the Far East.

The figure is depicted sitting serenely on his mule, holding a scroll of parchment—a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual quest. His expressive face, long beard, and wide hat convey all the nobility and serenity of this traditional figure.

The richness of the decoration is remarkable. Toba’s robe is entirely adorned with polychrome cloisonné featuring stylized scrollwork, flowers, and clouds, executed in sumptuous shades of blue, turquoise, green, red, white, and gold. The mount also features a harness finely decorated with cloisonné, attesting to the virtuosity of Japanese artisans during the Meiji era.

Cloisonné bronze, a particularly refined technique, involves soldering thin metal partitions onto the bronze to create compartments filled with colored enamels, followed by several firings and meticulous polishing. This method requires exceptional skill and lends the work an incomparable decorative richness.

With its generous dimensions (38 cm tall) and the quality of its craftsmanship, this sculpture is a prestigious piece intended for connoisseurs of Japanese art and collectors of high-quality Meiji-era objects.

Condition

In very fine condition, with a magnificent antique patina and vividly fresh enamels. No restoration noted.

Origin

Japan, Meiji period (1868–1912).

A spectacular decorative work, combining the nobility of bronze with the finesse of Japanese cloisonné, ideal for an Asian art collection or a prestigious interior.