MIYAO: A RARE AND FINE PARCEL GILT BRONZE OKIMONO OF A DRUNKEN SHOJO By Miyao Eisuke of Yokohama, signed Miyao sei kore Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) The visibly drunken Shojo kneeling with a large sake cup in its hands, the inebriated facial expression masterfully crafted, the mouth agape ready to take a large gulp of the silver-inlaid sake, the long hair neatly incised and falling down the back, dressed in a robe richly decorated with gilt flowers and wave patterns, signed within a gold plaque underneath MIYAO sei kore. With an associated lobed base embellished in gold takamaki-e with water dragons amid crashing waves. HEIGHT 19 cm WEIGHT 3,774 g Condition: Excellent condition with minor surface wear, some light surface scratches, tiny nicks. Provenance: British collection. The Miyao workshop was founded in the mid-19th century by Miyao Eisuke of Yokohama and is renowned for its powerful portrayals of legendary and historical figures made of bronze, often decorated with gilt and silver. A Shojo is a Japanese sea spirit with similarities to a ghost but differing from the latter in the fact that Shojo are tangible. It enjoys drinking alcohol, especially sake. Legend has it that workers at breweries in Japan have seen Shojo lurking about after indulging in their products. 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer`s premium – only for buyers within the EU.