Metal baluster vase, Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) The ovoid shape of the body is inspired by a taiko, and the sides are lacquered in gold and silver on a black background in imitation of wood grain. The rest of the body is similarly lacquered with a pair of hoho on a rock amidst flowers, while the other side features a bird of prey connected to a tree with chrysanthemums and other flowers at its base. The neck and base are decorated with triangular reserves featuring geometric motifs and foliage. Under the base a signature is written in gold: "Fait par Okuda du grand Japon" - 大日本奥田製 - Dai Nihon Okuda sei. Height : 18 cm