AN IMPRESSIVE BRONZE OF TWO ONI HOLDING A CRYSTAL BALL, ATTRIBUTED TO SANO TAKACHIKA Attributed to Sano Takachika, unsigned Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) The two grinning demons executed in parcel-gilt bronze and supporting a large crystal ball. One oni has a copper-brown patina while the other is crafted from shakudo. Both wear gilt bracelets at their feet and arms as well as loincloths embellished with gilt details. With an associated burlwood base. HEIGHT 21.7 cm (incl. crystal ball), HEIGHT 13.5 cm (the bronze only), HEIGHT 24.3 cm (total) WEIGHT 2,292 g Condition: Very good condition, minor wear, few light surface scratches. Literature comparison: Compare a near-identical bronze okimono of a single oni holding a crystal ball by Sano Takachika, illustrated in The Nasser D. Khalili Collection of Japanese Art - Treasures of Imperial Japan, Metalwork Part II, 1995, no. 123. 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer`s premium – only for buyers within the EU.