A fine mixed metal figure of Benkei holding a koro
By Miyao (workshop of Miyao Eisuke of Yokohama), Meiji Period
The legendary strongman seated in a gilt-accented armor breast plate and brocade-patterned garments decorated with auspicious animals and lush blossoms amid incised scrolling leafy tendrils, further dragons ornamenting the body of the tripod censer with upturned handles bracketing the domical lid pierced with a band of gilt-edged petals and surmounted by a spotted fu-lion playing with a tasseled brocade ball, the reverse with a gilt cartouche signed Miyao, all resting on a rectangular wooden stand with four cabriole-shaped supports and decorated in gold takamaki-e with dissolving dragons and ho-o amid scrolling leafy tendrils (minor corrosion).
The figure 23in (58.4cm) high