Item Description A handsome and auspicious cast bronze flower vase (chūdō kabin) by 山本鳳山 Yamamoto Hōzan, crafted in the distinguished tradition of 高岡銅器 Takaoka Dōki — one of Japan's most celebrated metalwork traditions, designated a National Traditional Craft (Dento Kogei) of Toyama Prefecture. The vase presents a bold, asymmetrical silhouette: a broad, flattened body with gently concave surfaces rises to a dramatically narrowed, triangular mouth opening — a form that balances sculptural modernity with the weight and gravitas of traditional Japanese metalwork. The body is finished in a deep, matte black with a subtly uneven, stone-like texture achieved through sand-casting — one of the hallmarks of Takaoka metalcraft. Two sides of the vase carry entirely different decorative motifs in raised gold and silver inlay, making this a piece that offers two distinct viewing experiences: Crane side (鶴): A pair of cranes — one in silver, one in gold — stand upright with necks extended skyward, rendered in fine sculptural relief against the dark ground. The crane (tsuru) is one of the most auspicious symbols in Japanese culture, associated with longevity, fidelity, and good fortune. Tortoise side (亀): Three tortoises — in gold and silver — are depicted in lively movement across the body of the vase. The tortoise (kame) is equally auspicious, symbolising longevity, steadiness, and enduring prosperity. Together, the crane and tortoise motif (tsuru-kame) is one of the most celebrated pairings in Japanese decorative art, traditionally conveying wishes for long life and lasting happiness. The artist's seal 鳳山 (Hōzan) is impressed into the body. No box included. Size Height: 20 cm Width: 19.5 cm Depth: 8.2 cm Weight 2,370 g Condition The vase shows light signs of use overall. There are minor, inconspicuous scuff marks on the base and lower body, barely noticeable under normal viewing conditions. No dents, cracks, or significant damage are present. The concave surfaces of the body and the three-dimensional relief of the cranes and tortoises are all intentional design features, not defects. Overall, this is a very attractive piece in near-excellent condition. Artist Profile 山本鳳山 Yamamoto Hōzan is a craftsman working within the tradition of 高岡銅器 Takaoka Dōki, the metalwork tradition of Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture. Takaoka has been a centre of Japanese bronze and copper craft since the early Edo period (early 17th century), when the Kaga domain lord Maeda Toshinaga invited master craftsmen to the region. Today, Takaoka accounts for the vast majority of Japan's Buddhist altar fittings and decorative metalwork, and its techniques — including lost-wax casting, sand casting, and inlay work in gold and silver — are recognised as a National Traditional Craft by the Japanese government. Works by named Takaoka artists are prized by collectors of Japanese decorative metalwork both domestically and internationally. NOTICE The photos may show flowers, plants, pedestals, etc. as examples of decorations and interior design for illustrative purposes, but please note that these are not included in the product. The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by DHL, FedEx or Japan Post depending on the situation. Please note that we may use recycled cartons for the outer packaging. It takes about 2-3 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. Sometimes Customs or the delivery company in your country may contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you can answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will be returned to us and it costs more than double the shipping fee for reshipping. We do appreciate your kind cooperation.