A JAPANESE KOMAI-STYLE MIXED METAL CHARGERMEIJI PERIOD, 19TH CENTURYThe well decorated with the sixteen enlightened disciples of Buddha, Juroku Rakan, some depicted with their attributes: Handaka Sonja in the centre holding a begging bowl from which his pet dragon emerges, another with a tiger, a third with an attendant holding a fruit basket, with details inlaid in gilt, 36.7cm dia. The Juroku Rakan are a group of legendary ascetics particularly popular in Zen Buddhism who were present at the death of the Buddha Shakyamuni and were ordered to remain in this world as witnesses to the truth of the Buddhist teachings. They are regarded as examples of behaviour who use their various magical powers to assist the faithful.