About This Piece A striking bronze flower vase in which a lustrous reddish-brown surface contrasts vividly with verdigris-green decoration, featuring sculptural dragon-head handles on either side and a pair of phoenixes rising prominently in relief around the body. Design and Decoration This bronze flower vase was created by Zuihō (瑞峰), an artist of Takaoka Bronze Ware (高岡銅器). The generously rounded body is flanked by two handles, each formed as the head of a dragon. From each sculpted head, the handle extends outward in a long, sweeping curve, creating a distinctive symmetrical silhouette. A broad relief band encircles the center of the body, depicting two phoenixes facing one another. Their wings and long, spreading tails are articulated through detailed raised lines and contours, surrounded by densely arranged geometric and plant motifs. The combination of dragon and phoenix motifs is one of the defining features of this vase, with the dragons expressed sculpturally through the twin handles and the phoenixes prominently rendered in relief across the body. Color and Surface The vase is predominantly reddish-brown, with a complex mottled surface incorporating darker and golden-toned areas. The broad decorative band around the body has been finished in the manner of ancient bronze vessels. Its verdigris-green coloration emphasizes the raised forms of the two phoenixes, making their detailed silhouettes stand out clearly. Similar green coloration appears on the dragon heads, creating a vivid contrast with the reddish-brown body. Dragon and Phoenix Motif The combination of the dragon and phoenix has been incorporated into Japanese Buddhist art and court culture and has traditionally been used as an auspicious motif of high status. The dragon, associated with water and rain, symbolizes power, prosperity, and protection, while the phoenix, believed to appear in times of peace, symbolizes virtue, happiness, and nobility. Together, they express the harmony of power and virtue, as well as wishes for prosperity, auspicious fortune, and peace throughout the realm. Artist and Origin The artist is Zuihō, an artist of Takaoka Bronze Ware. This piece is a Takaoka bronze flower vase. Condition The vase is in very good condition. As this is a long-stored item, there may be minor stains or scratches. Please refer to the photographs for details of the condition. Important Information 1. About the Interior Display Images Images showing the artwork displayed in an interior setting have been created virtually to illustrate how the piece may look when displayed indoors. 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. 2. Shipping to Italy The shipment may be subject to additional inspection at the discretion of the Italian customs authorities, and any costs associated with such additional inspection will be the responsibility of the buyer. Additional inspection 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 the costs associated with the return shipment and reshipment. Thank you for your understanding.