GENRYUSAI SEIYA: A MONUMENTAL 'PRIDE OF LIONS' BRONZE VASE Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Finely cast with six lions in high relief, neatly applied incision work and unctuous patina. The base with an artist's seal mark reading GENRYUSAI SEIYA zo. Despite the pride's large scale and striking appearance as a group, each lion is rendered with scientific exactitude, remarkably brisk and spirited by its own. The depiction hence attains a degree of naturalism, monumentality, and dignity normally found only in the works of the next generation of animal sculptors, notably Rembrandt Bugatti (1884-1916). HEIGHT 48.5 cm WEIGHT 12.1 kilograms Condition: Good condition with some stains, dents, old wear and traces of use, the original base reinstated. Provenance: From an English private collection.