Item Description 村田宏 Murata Hiroshi (1936- ) — Takaoka Doki Bronze Ikebana Vase with Peony Relief This exquisite single-flower vase (ikebana kabin) is a masterwork of Takaoka doki (Takaoka copperware), created by Murata Hiroshi, a celebrated Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) metalwork artist born in Takaoka City in 1936. The vase is cast in bronze with a rich, warm golden-brown patina. It features a classic bottle form with a globular lower body that rises into a long, slender neck and flares into a wide trumpet mouth. Two elegantly modeled loop handles adorn the neck, each terminating in a stylized zoomorphic form. The entire surface is covered in masterfully executed high-relief casting: the generous belly is wrapped with lush, naturalistically rendered peony blossoms, buds, and foliage — a motif traditionally associated with nobility, prosperity, and auspiciousness in Japanese art. Delicate arabesque and floral scroll patterns continue up the neck toward the flared rim. The base is an openwork petal-shaped foot ring, further demonstrating the exceptional skill of Takaoka's casting tradition. The underside bears the artist's incised seal reading "宏造" (Hiro-zō / Made by Hiro). Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture, has been the leading center of Japanese bronze casting for over 400 years, accounting for more than 90% of domestic copper ware production. Murata's works — known for their extraordinarily fine and intricate original patterns — are highly sought after by collectors both in Japan and internationally. A superb decorative piece that brings authentic Japanese metalwork heritage into any interior. Size Height: 25 cm Width: 14 cm Depth: 14 cm Weight 830 g Condition The vase is in good vintage condition consistent with age and storage; minor surface scratches and light soiling may be present but do not detract from its overall beauty and artistic quality. Artist Profile 村田宏 Murata Hiroshi (1936- ) Born in 1936 in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture, Murata Hiroshi is a distinguished metalwork artist specializing in Takaoka doki (Takaoka copperware). He trained under Murata Yoshio, a Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) councillor, mastering the intricate technique of pen-mold original pattern making. From 1952 he served at the Takaoka Municipal Metal Technology Guidance Center, where he guided the casting techniques and design of the copper ware industry until 1968. He made his debut at the 13th Nitten exhibition in 1957 and has since received numerous acceptances. In 1964, he was accepted into the Japan Contemporary Crafts Exhibition. Murata is renowned for his meticulous and highly detailed surface modeling, and his works are prized by collectors internationally. 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. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country 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 cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.