14 Old Japanese Art. 



by the kindness of Mr. Henry Matier, J.P., a very choice 

 collection of the finest old bronze and inlaid work was exhibited 

 and described. Much satisfaction was expressed among the 

 audience that the late disastrous fire at Dunlambert had not 

 materially injured any of these masterpieces. The subject of 

 bronze casting was entered into, and a brief account given of the 

 Japanese process of founding, which is similar to that known 

 in Europe as "cire perdu." The different subjects commonly 

 chosen for delineation by their craftsmen were mentioned 

 at length. The religions and mythology of the country were 

 briefly touched on, the seven favourite divinities and the five 

 monstrous animals frequently found on their art productions 

 being remarked on, and examples of some of them pointed 

 out as fashioned in bronze, pottery and enamels. The subject 

 of enamels was taken up in the last place. The superiority 

 of Japanese work was indicated by the comparison of some 

 examples of the middle period, in the form of plaques and vases, 

 with old Chinese work. The lecturer then concluded by giving 

 a short description of some of the beautiful works in bronze 

 and other metals kindly lent for exhibition on the occasion by 

 Mr. Henry Matier, J. P. A large flower vase from a Japanese 

 temple, cast in bronze, and properly inlaid with silver, having 

 panels on each face in raised metals, one representing a god 

 seated beside the national vehicle, the jinrishka, was much 

 admired. Another was particularly noticeable for the skill 

 with which a dragon, encircled by clouds, was depicted. A 

 large plaque, with a monstrous cuttle-fish seizing an unfor- 

 tunate wretch, who has endeavoured to pilfer a vase lying 

 on the sea beach, was much remarked for the masterly skill 

 displayed in its manipulation and the precious metals used. 

 Specimens of the best work, in wrought iron, inlaid with gold, 

 and chased in high relief, were also shown. The incense burners, 

 of elaborate bronze work, are unique of their kind. 



