Deux défenses d'éléphant sculptées par Hoshino Shigemitsu Japon, époque Meiji (1868-1912), datés de la 25ème année (1882)

A décor en haut relief sur chaque face des batailles historiques et épisodes légendaires, dont la victoire de Minamoto no Yoritomo lors de la bataille de Fujinono au cours des guerres de Gempei (1193), le héros chevauchant et tuant le sanglier géant, chaque scène décrite dans dans un cartouche sculpté en relief, sur la première défense: Dai Nippon Tokyo Kato Ko Tatsumi ya, suivi de la date Meiji 25, signature sei Hoshino Shigemitsu kinto dans un cartouche vertical, l'autre inscrite Kenkyu Yonen gogatsu Seiitaishogun Minamoto no Yoritomo Kari Fujinono zu , les deux montées en bronze et adaptées en lampes

Paris, exposition universelle, 1889.

Good condition with the exception of a small 1 cm chip to the edge of the umbrella above the horse rider (shown in the catalogue illustration). A chip also to the upper section and the rope of the bow of a soldier on the back. There is also a chip to the tip of one pine tree, just below the carved clouds border of the second tusk (also visible on the photo). Expected radiant age cracks above the rim of both. Both tusks are fitted with early 20th century bronze mounts, later adapted for electricity.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."