A pair of Miyao bronze figures. By Miyao Eisuke, Meiji period (late 19th century). Photo Bonhams.

The two warriors with their weapons at the ready finely cast in bronze with gilt details, the first advancing with his naginata dressed in an elaborate robe and helmet, the second figure posed with an arrow nocked on his bow, a quiver slung around his back, both signed in a rectangular gilt plaque Miyao Ei; each with fitted wood stand; 8in (20.3cm) high; 9in (22.9cm) high. Sold for US$ 37,500 (€27,248)

Published: Laura Bordignon, The Golden Age of Japanese Okimono, Suffolk, 2010, p.259

Bonhams. FINE JAPANESE WORKS OF ART. 19 Mar 2014, New York. www.bonhams.com