Fantastic Japanese iron and mixed metal koro of globular form, decorated with naturalistic tortoise finial and with three additional tortoises along the body, two of which are done in silver. All with gold inlaid eyes and surrounded by gilt or shakudō foliate motifs. Lid and the inner rim have white metal liners. Signed 勝信刻 on the side of the body and with gold inlay square seal mark to the base.
In very good antique condition consistent with age and usage. Some minor surface marks and one small inconspicuous dent next to the maker’s mark as per photographs.
Height: 10 cm
References
For similar koro by Katsunobu see Bonhams – Fine Japanese Art sale, 13 September 2017 – lot 1058 – An iron and silver koro (incense burner)
Meiji era (1868-1912), late 19th century
Steve Sly Japanese Works Of Art Exhibition Book – 2020 Vision Of An Enlightened Ruler – Vol II – page 66 – Iron dragon koro (includes close-up of the mark)
