Takaoka Bronze Art Vase Crane(鶴) Material: Cast bronze (bronze alloy) with gold and silver chōkin inlay Origin: Japan – Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture Period: Showa period (20th century) Condition: Good vintage condition. Surface shows age-related patina, light wear and minor surface marks consistent with its age. No cracks, dents, repairs or structural damage observed. Please look carefully at the photos to confirm the condition and make sure you are satisfied before bidding. ─────── This refined bronze vase was produced in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture — one of Japan’s most important centers of metal casting for over four centuries. The form is elegant and well-balanced, with a gently swelling pear-shaped body rising into a slender, flared neck. Its deep, lustrous brown surface has a rich metallic sheen that shifts subtly under light, enhancing the sculptural presence of the piece. The highlight is the exquisite depiction of two cranes, rendered in gold and silver using the traditional Japanese metal engraving technique known as chōkin (彫金). One crane stretches its neck upward in a dignified pose, while the other lowers its head gracefully, creating a harmonious and poetic composition. Each feather is finely articulated, and the delicate rendering of the legs, beaks and plumage demonstrates remarkable craftsmanship. The restrained bronze ground allows the gold and silver to stand out vividly, producing a striking yet refined contrast. In Japanese culture, the crane is a powerful symbol of longevity, prosperity and auspicious fortune. Paired cranes often represent harmony and enduring happiness, making this motif particularly meaningful. This vase combines sculptural elegance, symbolic depth and traditional metal artistry, making it suitable both as a functional flower vessel and as a decorative art object for a refined interior. The vase is accompanied by a leaflet introducing the tradition of Takaoka metalwork, further emphasizing its regional craftsmanship background. ─────── Included • Vase • Takaoka metalwork leaflet / brochure ─────── Dimensions: Height: approx. 20 cm Body diameter: approx. 14.5 cm Weight: approx. 1 kg ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Shipping • Carefully packed and shipped with tracking. • International shipping via Yamato Transport or Japan Post. • Import duties, taxes, VAT and any other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These costs are the buyer’s responsibility. Please check your country’s customs regulations before bidding.