A Resplendent Gourd Where Cranes Soar in Gilded Splendour This double gourd vase exemplifies the celebrated kinrande (gold brocade) tradition of Kutani ware. The elegant hyōtan (gourd) form rises from a compressed spherical base through a narrow waist to a graceful baluster-shaped upper section, culminating in a slender neck with a delicate gilt rim. The entire surface is enveloped in intricate geometric patterns executed in gold and overglaze enamels of red, green, and turquoise. The upper section displays a repeating lattice of interlocking floral medallions in gold on a turquoise ground, while the lower body presents a denser star-pattern lattice in gold and red on a turquoise field. A gilt band elegantly marks the juncture between the two sections. Two large circular reserves on the body showcase magnificently painted cranes in mid-flight. Each crane is rendered with meticulous detail: wings spread wide in gradations of cobalt blue and turquoise with gold outlining, the body adorned in mottled greens, and the distinctive red crown and long beak clearly defined. The background within each reserve features a stippled gold wash, creating a luminous atmosphere. The recessed white foot ring bears a green enamel square seal mark reading "Kutani Shigeyoshi." The piece demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship in both the precision of the geometric ground patterns and the expressive freedom of the crane paintings. About Yamamoto Shigeyoshi Yamamoto Shigeyoshi is a Kutani ware artist born in Yamashiro Onsen, Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture. He is a member of the Kaga Kutani Ceramics Cooperative Association and continues the tradition of Kutani ware production in one of its historic centres. His work exemplifies the kinrande (gold brocade) style that became the dominant decorative technique of Kutani ware from the Meiji period onwards. Kutani Shōza established the saishiki kinrande (polychrome gold brocade) style in the early Meiji period by incorporating Western pigments, and this became the mainstream of Kutani ware exported to Europe and America. Shipping / Policy Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan by Japan Post or DHL with tracking. If you purchase multiple items, combined shipping is available. Please contact us if needed. Import duties, VAT (or equivalent consumption tax), and any other fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Guarantee Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.