About This Piece Across a deep black surface, bold golden lines and splashes sweep in every direction, while the slender crane-neck silhouette rises above a sharply faceted body, creating a striking contrast of flowing and geometric forms. Design and Craftsmanship This bronze flower vase is a work of Takaoka Bronze Ware (高岡銅器), Japan. One of its most distinctive features is the dramatic change in silhouette between the upper and lower sections. The upper part rises into a slender crane-neck form, while the lower body is shaped as a faceted, octagonal-based form. The smooth, narrow neck contrasts clearly with the multiple flat planes and defined edges of the body. These two very different forms—flowing above and geometric below—are brought together within a single composition. Equally striking is the bold gold decoration spread across the black ground. Fine golden lines intersect irregularly, accompanied by scattered droplets and sweeping linear marks that resemble scratches at first glance. Rather than forming a regular repeating pattern, the lines overlap and extend freely from the neck across the shoulders and body. The black surface becomes the backdrop for an energetic network of gold, giving the vase its highly distinctive visual character. Color and Surface The color palette is dominated by deep black and gold. The gold decoration appears not only as fine lines and scattered points, but also in broader areas across parts of the shoulders and body. Delicate linear details therefore coexist with larger fields of gold across the same surface. Depending on how the light falls on the vase, the surface can appear predominantly black or reveal a much stronger golden presence. This is particularly noticeable across the faceted body, where black and gold are distributed over its individual planes, emphasizing both the angular form and the bold surface design. Origin and Inscription This is a Japanese bronze vase of Takaoka Bronze Ware (高岡銅器). An inscription on the underside records that the vase was presented as a commemorative gift. Original Wooden Box The vase comes with its original paulownia wood box (桐箱). The box is inscribed “Cast Bronze Flower Vase” (鋳銅 花瓶). A handwritten note by a previous owner is also present on the top of the box. As the box has been stored for a long period, it shows discoloration, staining, and scratches. Condition The vase itself is in very good condition. Please note that the numerous fine lines across the surface may initially resemble scratches. These are not damage, but part of the gold decoration intentionally applied over the black ground. The original paulownia wood box shows discoloration, staining, and scratches from long-term storage. Important Information 1. About the Interior Display Images Images showing the artwork displayed in an interior have been created virtually to illustrate how the piece may look when displayed in a room. The artwork itself has not been edited or altered in these images. For the actual size of the artwork, please refer to the dimensions stated in the item description. For the actual colors and condition, please refer to the photographs showing the artwork itself taken directly. 2. Shipping to Italy Shipments to Italy may be subject to additional inspections at the discretion of the Italian customs authorities. Any costs associated with such additional inspections are the responsibility of the buyer. Additional inspections may also cause delays in customs clearance and delivery. Please make your purchase with an understanding of these possibilities. 3. Shipping, Import Duties, and Customs Clearance The item will be carefully packed and shipped via DHL or Japan Post. The usual delivery time is approximately 1–2 weeks; however, delivery may take longer depending on customs procedures and local delivery conditions. Import duties, taxes, customs clearance fees, and any other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Any such charges incurred locally are the responsibility of the buyer. If the item is returned due to refusal to pay import duties, taxes, or other customs-related charges, refusal to accept delivery, or failure to complete the necessary customs procedures, the buyer will be responsible for all costs associated with the return and reshipment of the item. Thank you for your understanding.