Artist: Hōun (峰雲) Material: Cast metal (bronze or bronze alloy) with pure gold leaf Origin: Japan – Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture Period: Showa period (20th century) Condition: Good vintage condition overall. Minor surface variations and patina consistent with age and the artist’s intended finishing techniques. No cracks, repairs, or structural damage observed. ─────── This vase belongs to a body of work that Hōun himself referred to as “Pure Gold Leaf Bronzeware” (純金箔青銅器). The piece presents a striking contrast between a blue-green patinated surface and boldly applied areas of pure gold leaf. The placement of the gold leaf varies from piece to piece, resulting in a unique and unrepeatable appearance for each work. The straight, slender neck, known as a "crane neck (鶴首)," exudes an air of grace and symmetry. The expressive surface treatment harmonizes with the sculptural silhouette. The included leaflet contains a text written by Hōun himself. The following passage is a direct English translation of the original Japanese text provided by the artist: “Pure Gold Leaf Bronzeware is inspired by ancient Chinese bronzeware excavated from the ground. Pure gold leaf is applied using lacquer, while the remaining areas are treated to resemble surfaces that have naturally corroded underground over many years. As time passes, the surface gradually settles and stabilizes, developing a natural character. With continued appreciation, this work is intended to mature into an object of lasting aesthetic value.” Through this concept, Hōun envisioned his works as pieces that evolve over time, embracing irregularity, surface change, and the quiet beauty associated with wabi-sabi aesthetics. ─────── Included • Vase • Original wrapping paper / leaflet (artist’s explanation) ─────── Dimensions • Height: approx. 30 cm • Mouth diameter: approx. 3.5 cm • Body diameter: approx. 9.5 cm • Weight: approx. 0.6 kg ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Shipping • Carefully packed and shipped with tracking. • International shipping via Yamato Transport or Japan Post. • Import duties, taxes, VAT, and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost and are the buyer’s responsibility. • For shipments to France, a €2 customs handling fee (“small parcel tax”) may be charged by La Poste upon arrival.