Shipping & Taxes Due to the large size and heavy weight of this item, shipping conditions differ depending on the destination country. Please read the following information carefully before bidding. The item is expected to weigh approximately 10 kg when fully packed for international shipping. It will generally be shipped by Japan Post International Parcel (Surface Mail) with tracking. Please note that Japan Post applies different maximum parcel size limits depending on the destination country. For destinations where the packed parcel exceeds the permitted dimensions, an alternative shipping method or carrier may be required. Shipping costs therefore vary significantly by destination and are reflected in the shipping fee shown for each country. At present, surface parcel service is not available for shipments to Belgium. A different shipping method will therefore be required for buyers in Belgium. Delivery by surface mail usually takes approximately 2–3 months, but it may take longer depending on the destination, customs clearance, and local postal conditions. Import duties, VAT, customs clearance fees, and any other charges imposed in the destination country are the responsibility of the buyer. For orders where Catawiki collects import VAT at the time of purchase, the relevant IOSS information will be provided with the shipment when applicable. Please check the tracking information regularly after shipment. Customs authorities or the local postal service may contact you regarding import procedures, payment of taxes or duties, or delivery arrangements. Please respond promptly to any such requests. Failure to complete the required procedures may result in the parcel being returned to Japan. If a parcel is returned due to the buyer's failure to complete customs procedures, pay required charges, or arrange delivery, any additional shipping costs incurred for reshipment will be the buyer's responsibility. 【Discription】 This is an exceptional high-quality Japanese cast bronze vase created by the renowned metal artist Masaharu Takenaka (竹中正晴), associated with the prestigious tradition of Takaoka copperware (Takaoka Doki). Against a deep and noble royal-blue background, two beautifully detailed auspicious cranes are depicted soaring gracefully among golden clouds. The delicate silver-toned cranes contrast strikingly with the rich blue surface and elegant gold accents, giving the vase an exceptionally luxurious, refined, and dignified presence. The design is titled “Juso Kakuzu” (寿双鶴図), depicting a pair of cranes as symbols of longevity, happiness, and good fortune in Japanese culture. The combination of the two cranes, golden clouds, and the Imperial chrysanthemum motif gives the work a particularly distinguished and celebratory character. This is a special commemorative work created to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the reign of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. According to the original sales information previously issued for this work, it was produced in a very limited edition of only 30 pieces, making it an exceptionally rare example. The vase has an impressive scale and substantial weight, weighing approximately 5.48 kg. Its powerful rounded form, elaborate metal decoration, and deep lustrous coloration demonstrate the craftsmanship for which Takaoka copperware, one of Japan's most celebrated traditional metalworking traditions, is renowned. The original signed wooden presentation box (tomobako) and the original wooden commemorative plaque are included. The inscription on the plaque identifies the work as “Juso Kakuzu” by Masaharu Takenaka, created to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Emperor's reign, further documenting the special origin and significance of this piece. A rare and highly decorative Japanese metalwork of exceptional presence, combining traditional craftsmanship, auspicious Japanese symbolism, and an important Imperial commemorative background. An outstanding piece for collectors of Japanese art, Takaoka metalwork, and Japanese Imperial commemorative works. Dimensions: Height: 29.2 cm Weight: Vase: approximately 5.48 kg Weight with original wooden box: approximately 7.1 kg Estimated fully packed shipping weight: approximately 10 kg