Large bronze water fountain, Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) The globular tama-like body is flanked by two curved handles. The lid features a dragon in relief, coiling around the sacred jewel. A large frieze with a kikko or tortoise-shell motif runs around the opening. At the bottom of the fountain, the spout is fitted with a tap carved in the round in the shape of a monkey. The whole is mounted on a stepped circular base with a Greek motif on the upper band. Height: 71 cm The dragons are detached, one broken.