Antique Japanese Meiji Period Hibachi Brazier

A scarce Japanese hibachi (brazier) from the Meiji period (1868-1912), having a hardwood frame, likely elm wood, with decorative repousse brass mounted corners, original patinated bronze bowl insert, fitted circular red & black lacquer lid embellished with ducks & lotus blossoms, rising on hand carved curved legs. Retaining partial remnants of paper labels to verso, one reads Japan, one with Japanese characters. Provenance: The estate of an iconic Houston Socialite who enjoyed a long career in modeling, both nationally & internationally. She loved & studied interior design & fashion, & was known for her pristine style. Acquisition: 2021 catalog, Austin Auction Gallery, Austin, Texas. Condition: This rare Asian antique is in excellent shape, exhibition quality, that presents splendidly, & features exquisite craftsmanship & detailing, with beautiful patina, warm, rich wood coloring & superb grain detail. Nicely aged, rustic, patinated bronze with scattered oxidation & verdigris patina. Originally braziers were used to hold hot coal, functioning as a hand warmer, heat a room, cook food or warm water. Due to the level of decoration, this 19th century example was most likely used to heat a kettle during a traditional tea ceremony. Today, it could be used as an end table, centre cocktail table, drinks stand, cachepot planter, or displayed as an interesting decorative object. Dimensions: (approx) 9.5" High, 20.25" Wide, 20.25" Deep Antique Japanese Meiji Period Hibachi Brazier