Vase - Bronze - Japan (No reserve price)
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Japanese bronze vase in the Takaoka red bronze tradition (kabin) with a height of 25 cm, width 12 cm and depth 12 cm, weighing 1.407 kg, dating to 1970–1980, in excellent condition with light wear and some losses to the red patina, bearing an engraved dedication reading "Presented by Nippon Kokan Keihin Labor Union".
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Description from the seller
Item Description
This is a striking antique Japanese bronze vase (kabin) in the Takaoka bronze tradition (Takaoka-dōki), from Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture — one of Japan's most celebrated centers for cast metalwork since the early Edo period. The vase has a classic double-gourd amphora silhouette with a tall cylindrical neck, a pair of dramatic dragon-head handles curling into scrolled tails, and a bulbous lower body raised on a short circular foot.
The surface is finished in a rich vermillion-red lacquer-like patina (shu-doko/tan-doko style bronze), mottled with darker oxidation that gives the piece a warm, aged glow. A wide central band around the shoulder is decorated in low relief with confronting phoenix (hō-ō) birds amid scrolling foliate motifs, set against a finely stippled ground — a hallmark of high-quality Takaoka relief casting.
The base bears an engraved dedication reading "Presented by — Nippon Kokan Keihin Labor Union", indicating the piece was originally produced as a commemorative or presentation gift, likely marking an anniversary or retirement event at the Nippon Kokan (NKK) Keihin steelworks. This adds a layer of social and industrial history to an already handsome decorative object, ideal for collectors of Japanese metalwork, ikebana vessels, or mid-20th-century commemorative craft.
Size
Height: 25 cm
Width: 12 cm
Depth: 12 cm
Weight
1,407 g / 1.407 kg
Condition
The vase shows light surface wear and scattered losses to the red lacquer-style finish (particularly at the rim, where the underlying metal is visible), consistent with age and gentle handling; no cracks, dents, or structural damage are visible in the photographs.
NOITICE:
The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation.
It takes about 3 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.
Customs or delivery company in your country may contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me, and it will cost double for reshipping.
I appreciate your cooperation.
Seller's Story
A Japanese living in Japan, I appreciate traditional and modern art.
I specialize in selecting artworks that reflect quiet strength, refined beauty, and timeless craftsmanship of Japanese culture. My collection focuses on pieces that carry a story—whether traditional ukiyo‑e prints, contemporary works inspired by wabi‑sabi aesthetics, or handcrafted items created by regional artisans.
With years of experience working closely with artists, studios, and collectors across Japan, I take pride in offering works that are both visually compelling and culturally meaningful. Every item is carefully curated for authenticity, condition, and artistic value, ensuring that bidders can participate with confidence.
My goal is to connect international collectors with the richness of Japanese artistry—pieces that bring harmony, character, and a touch of Japan’s spirit into your home.
I look forward to sharing these works with you and hope they inspire the same appreciation and joy they bring to me :)
Translated by Google TranslateItem Description
This is a striking antique Japanese bronze vase (kabin) in the Takaoka bronze tradition (Takaoka-dōki), from Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture — one of Japan's most celebrated centers for cast metalwork since the early Edo period. The vase has a classic double-gourd amphora silhouette with a tall cylindrical neck, a pair of dramatic dragon-head handles curling into scrolled tails, and a bulbous lower body raised on a short circular foot.
The surface is finished in a rich vermillion-red lacquer-like patina (shu-doko/tan-doko style bronze), mottled with darker oxidation that gives the piece a warm, aged glow. A wide central band around the shoulder is decorated in low relief with confronting phoenix (hō-ō) birds amid scrolling foliate motifs, set against a finely stippled ground — a hallmark of high-quality Takaoka relief casting.
The base bears an engraved dedication reading "Presented by — Nippon Kokan Keihin Labor Union", indicating the piece was originally produced as a commemorative or presentation gift, likely marking an anniversary or retirement event at the Nippon Kokan (NKK) Keihin steelworks. This adds a layer of social and industrial history to an already handsome decorative object, ideal for collectors of Japanese metalwork, ikebana vessels, or mid-20th-century commemorative craft.
Size
Height: 25 cm
Width: 12 cm
Depth: 12 cm
Weight
1,407 g / 1.407 kg
Condition
The vase shows light surface wear and scattered losses to the red lacquer-style finish (particularly at the rim, where the underlying metal is visible), consistent with age and gentle handling; no cracks, dents, or structural damage are visible in the photographs.
NOITICE:
The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation.
It takes about 3 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.
Customs or delivery company in your country may contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me, and it will cost double for reshipping.
I appreciate your cooperation.
Seller's Story
A Japanese living in Japan, I appreciate traditional and modern art.
I specialize in selecting artworks that reflect quiet strength, refined beauty, and timeless craftsmanship of Japanese culture. My collection focuses on pieces that carry a story—whether traditional ukiyo‑e prints, contemporary works inspired by wabi‑sabi aesthetics, or handcrafted items created by regional artisans.
With years of experience working closely with artists, studios, and collectors across Japan, I take pride in offering works that are both visually compelling and culturally meaningful. Every item is carefully curated for authenticity, condition, and artistic value, ensuring that bidders can participate with confidence.
My goal is to connect international collectors with the richness of Japanese artistry—pieces that bring harmony, character, and a touch of Japan’s spirit into your home.
I look forward to sharing these works with you and hope they inspire the same appreciation and joy they bring to me :)
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1900-2000
Weight
1407 g
Country of origin
Japan
Material
Bronze
Manufacturer/brand
Rare Takaoka red bronze
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
Height
25 cm
Width
12 cm
Depth
12 cm
Estimated period
1970-1980
