Takaoka Copperware(高岡銅器) – Double-Handled(双耳) Copper Flower Vase with the Signature "Kenshun(兼荀)" – Sunset Red Patina (No Reserve Price) This beautiful copper flower vase is a piece of Takaoka Copperware, a traditional Japanese craft that has been produced in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture, for over 400 years. The vase is made of copper and bears the signature "Kenshun" (兼荀) on its base. With its graceful rounded form measuring approximately 20 cm in diameter, the vase is particularly striking for its beautiful color gradient, reminiscent of a glowing sunset melting into the horizon. Rather than the uniform finish of mass-produced items, each vase possesses its own unique character, giving it a warm and expressive appearance. Copper has long been valued in Japan for its natural antibacterial properties and has traditionally been used for flower vases to help keep cut flowers fresh for longer. Please note: The interior of the vase is coated in black. According to the Takaoka Copperware Museum, this black coating is coal tar, which has traditionally been applied to prevent water leakage. It is not dirt or damage. I personally confirmed this information directly with the museum. https://www.takaokadouki.net/ 【About Takaoka Copperware】 Takaoka Copperware is one of Japan's most celebrated traditional crafts, dating back to the Edo Period (1603–1868) and continuing for more than 400 years. Takaoka artisans produce an extraordinary range of works, from small decorative objects, Buddhist ritual implements, and flower vases to monumental temple bells, Buddhist statues, and bronze monuments. Today, Takaoka remains one of Japan's leading centers for both the production volume and sales of copperware. 【The Copperware Behind Japan's Most Handsome Great Buddha】 Japan is famous for its Three Great Buddhas: the Great Buddha of Nara, the Great Buddha of Kamakura, and the Great Buddha of Takaoka. Among them, the Takaoka Great Buddha is affectionately known in Japan as "the most handsome Great Buddha." It is regarded as one of the finest achievements of Takaoka's traditional bronze casting craftsmanship. If you have a moment, you may enjoy watching this short video introducing the Takaoka Great Buddha: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsagouHXbis 【Dimensions】 Height: Approx. 30 cm Diameter: Approx. 20 cm Weight: Approx. 2,150 g 【Condition】 As this vase dates from the early Showa period, it shows minor signs of age and use, including small surface scratches consistent with its age. The original signed wooden storage box (tomobako) is not included with this vase. Please note that the eyeglasses shown in the photographs are for size reference only and are not included in this lot. Please review the photographs carefully before placing your bid. 【Important Information Before Bidding】 This item will be shipped from Japan. Please note that the hammer price, shipping costs, import duties, VAT, and Catawiki service fees are not included in the purchase price. Buyers outside Japan are kindly requested to check their country's import duties before bidding, or refer to the Catawiki Help Center below. • Understanding import taxes https://www.catawiki.com/en/help/buyer-customs-and-taxes/understanding-import-taxes • Understanding customs fees and import charges https://www.catawiki.com/en/help/buyer-customs-and-taxes/understanding-customs-fees-and-import-charges 【Shipping】 The vase will be carefully packed and shipped from Japan with a tracking number to ensure safe delivery. Please note that shipping costs vary depending on the destination. For example, shipping to the Netherlands, Italy, and Spain is €48. For some EU countries where EMS service is currently suspended, the item will be shipped via an alternative carrier for €53. Please check the shipping cost to your country before placing your bid.