Antique Japanese Altar Lotus Flower, a pair — Brass, 1920, Taisho Era (SKU: 25D-490)

Antique Japanese Altar Lotus Flower (SKU 25D-490)

Taishō-period brass lotus arrangement for the Buddhist butsudan altar

This finely cast brass pair of altar flowers, or hana-ire, depicts auspicious lotus blossoms rising elegantly from classical brass or bronze vases. Each stem, bud, seed pod and leaf is individually formed and joined, creating a lively, sculptural composition that would have flanked a household butsudan (Buddhist family altar) as an offering of perpetual bloom. The warm, time-softened gilt on the petals contrasts beautifully with the darker patina of the stems and vases.

Dating to the Taishō era, the set shows the refined metalwork associated with early 20th-century Japanese temple furnishings: crisply ribbed lotus buds, delicately serrated leaves, and urn-form bases with fluted midsections and stylized ring handles. With their rich, untouched surface and balanced silhouette, these antique Japanese altar flowers bring an authentic touch of wabi-sabi elegance to a tokonoma alcove, meditation space, or curated collection of Buddhist art.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taishō period (early 20th century)
• Material: Cast brass with gilt highlights
• Use: Buddhist altar (butsudan) flower offerings; decorative display
• Features: Pair of lotus arrangements with buds, seed pods and leaves; urn-form vases with fluted bodies and side handles; rich aged patina with traces of gilding; classic Taishō Buddhist altar flower design
• Dimensions: 4.5"W x 3.5"D x 12"H /ea.
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with age-appropriate patina and minor surface wear

A harmonious and authentic set for collectors of Japanese Buddhist antiques and refined interior décor.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.