Vase - Copper - Japan

Description:
This copper vase has a quiet yet powerful presence, defined by its simple ovoid form and finely controlled surface. The body is gently elongated, rising to a small, restrained mouth that gives the piece a balanced and dignified silhouette. Its shape is highly refined, with no unnecessary ornament, allowing the beauty of proportion and metal surface to become the central focus.
The patinated copper shows rich tonal variation, shifting through deep brown, smoky bronze, and dark auburn hues, with a striking area of crimson-red near the lower body that adds warmth and visual depth. The surface has a soft, luminous sheen rather than a harsh polish, which gives the vase a subtle atmospheric quality. This kind of coloration emphasizes the natural expressive possibilities of copper and reflects a sensibility rooted in both craftsmanship and sculptural simplicity.
The vase feels understated, elegant, and distinctly Japanese in character. It is a work that relies on form, balance, and nuanced patina rather than decoration, making it especially appealing as an art object as well as a flower vase.

Artist:
Keiten Takahashi 高橋敬典 (1920–2009) was a Japanese metal artist best known as a master maker of tea ceremony kettles. Born in Domachi, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, his real name was Takaji Takahashi. In 1996, he was designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property for “tea ceremony kettles,” making him a Living National Treasure.
He succeeded the family business, Yamasho Foundry, in 1938, and later studied under Nagano Tetsushi in 1950. In 1951, his work Wazura Hiramaru Kama with Waterweed Design was accepted for the first time into the Nitten exhibition. He went on to receive major recognition, including an Encouragement Award at the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition in 1963 for Satetsu Matsumon Nadekata-gama, and the NHK Chairman’s Award at the same exhibition in 1976 for Koshikiguchi-gama.
He also presented kettles to Emperor Showa in 1961 and to Crown Prince Akihito in 1979, further establishing his reputation as one of the leading tea kettle makers of his time. In addition, he served in important roles such as counselor to the Japan Kogei Association and contributed to the development of Yamagata cast metalwork and traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
His work is appreciated for combining the practicality and dignity required in the tea ceremony with refined form and beautifully controlled iron surfaces. He is regarded as an artist who embodied the highest level of traditional tea kettle craftsmanship in modern Japan.

NOTICE


The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post depends on the situation. 
It takes about 3～4 weeks to receive normally.Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility.



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