Fine Pair of Japanese Meiji Period Juzan Silvered-Bronze Figural Candlesticks

A magnificent matched pair of Japanese silvered-bronze figural candlesticks, dating to the Meiji period (1868–1912) and bearing cast 壽山鑄造 (Juzan chūzō) seal marks to the undersides, translating approximately as “Cast by Juzan.”

Each elaborate candlestick is constructed as a sculptural tiered composition centered upon a finely modeled caparisoned elephant, its ceremonial saddle cloth decorated in relief and standing upon a rectangular platform raised on four scrolling feet. Above the elephant is a powerful crouching shishi or mythological guardian beast, supporting an archaistic handled vessel embellished with further relief decoration. A decorated tapering stem rises above to the broad candle socket and drip pan.

The exceptionally elaborate design combines several motifs strongly associated with Japanese Meiji decorative arts—elephants, guardian beasts, archaistic vessel forms and richly worked surface ornament—into an impressive architectural composition.

Of particular interest are the matching cast seals beneath the bases reading 壽山鑄造 (Juzan chūzō). Comparable Juzan-marked bronzes are documented in the Japanese art market, while the complex elephant-and-shishi construction belongs to a distinctive group of elaborate figural candlesticks produced during the Meiji period.

The original silvered surface has developed a rich, naturally varied patina, with darker bronze tones showing through areas of age-related wear and oxidation, beautifully emphasizing the relief work. The pair has not been aggressively polished and retains considerable antique character.

Details: Japanese, Meiji period, late 19th century; silvered bronze/copper alloy; approximately 11 inches high; both bearing 壽山鑄造 (Juzan chūzō / “Cast by Juzan”) seal marks. Offered as an original matched pair.

An unusually sculptural and visually commanding pair of Meiji metalwork candlesticks, particularly desirable for their matching Juzan casting marks, elaborate elephant-and-shishi iconography, substantial scale and surviving period surface.