Japanese Bronze Dragon Usubata Vase With Two Dragon Candle Holder Featuring elaborate dragon motif, likely dating from the Meiji period (1868–1912). Form The vase is an usubata, a traditional Japanese vessel composed of two parts: a flaring upper section with a wide, flat rim and a sculptural base. The wide rim is designed to expose the surface of the water, which is a key element in ikebana (the Japanese art of floral arrangement).Decoration A highly detailed, three-clawed dragon (known as Ryu or Tatsu) is cast in high relief, coiling around the body and base amidst turbulent, swirling waves. Japanese dragons symbolize wisdom and generosity and rarely fly, instead residing in bodies of water.Period The intricate and detailed craftsmanship, including the use of high relief, is characteristic of metalwork from the late 19th Century, during Japan''s Meiji era, a period regarded as a golden age of Japanese craftsmanship.Value The value for similar antique Japanese bron...