Antique Japanese bronze vase molded with a pair of phoenixes in flight. Signed on the bottom. Also called hou-ou, the pair of mythical birds together are often symbols of fidelity but also represent fire, sun and justice. When used in reference to the imperial household, the phoenix represents the empress.

Age: Taisho Period (1912-1926)

Dimensions: 13" high x 8 1/2" wide