PRODUCT TITLE Takaoka Bronze Vase by Hiroshi Murata – Four-Sided Bird and Flower Relief with Shishi Motif – Japan PRODUCT DESCRIPTION A substantial Japanese bronze flower vase attributed to Hiroshi Murata and produced in the tradition of Takaoka metalwork. The tall rectangular form is richly decorated on all sides with detailed relief scenes of birds, flowering branches and traditional auspicious motifs. One panel features cranes beneath blossoms, while other sides depict flying birds, a pheasant-like bird and seasonal floral imagery. A sculpted shishi, or Japanese guardian lion, appears prominently near the neck and gives the vase a powerful three-dimensional presence. The body is surrounded by an intricate woven or basket-like geometric pattern, creating a strong contrast with the smoother reddish-brown decorative panels. Its deep brown and copper-toned patina emphasizes the relief work and gives the surface a warm, aged character. Standing approximately 35 cm high and weighing about 2.65 kg, this is a substantial decorative piece with considerable visual presence. It is suitable for collectors of Japanese bronze, Takaoka metalwork, flower vessels and traditional Japanese decorative arts. Please note that no original wooden box is included. Condition and surface wear should be carefully checked in the photographs. CREATOR BACKGROUND Hiroshi Murata is associated with Japanese decorative metalwork and bronze flower vessels made in the tradition of Takaoka copperware. Takaoka, located in Toyama Prefecture, has been one of Japan’s most important centers of metal casting since the early Edo period. The region became especially renowned for bronze vessels, Buddhist fittings, ornaments and highly detailed decorative works using casting, engraving and patination techniques. Works from Takaoka often combine sculptural relief, traditional Japanese motifs and complex surface treatments, as seen in this richly decorated vase. MANUFACTURER / PRODUCTION BACKGROUND Takaoka copperware, known in Japanese as Takaoka Doki, has a history extending for more than four centuries. Craftsmen developed sophisticated casting and finishing techniques that allowed detailed animals, flowers, birds and geometric patterns to be rendered directly in metal. Bird-and-flower designs are especially important in Japanese decorative art, symbolizing natural beauty, longevity, harmony and seasonal change. This vase reflects that tradition through its combination of cranes, blossoms, birds, shishi and deeply modeled relief decoration. PRODUCT SIZE Height: Approx. 35 cm Width: Approx. 15 cm Depth: Approx. 15 cm Weight: Approx. 2,650 g **PLEASE NOTE** Shipping & Customs Information: Country of Origin: Items are shipped from Japan. Important Notice for EU Buyers: Due to recent EU customs policy changes, items to EU destinations will primarily be shipped via express courier (DHL/FedEx). As a result, shipping costs are higher than standard postal services to ensure safe, smooth, and traceable delivery. Please check the shipping fees carefully before bidding. Shipping Carriers: Depending on the destination and situation, items will be shipped via DHL or FedEx. Packaging & Fees: Items are packed very carefully to prevent damage in transit. Shipping costs are calculated based on the item weight, packing materials, and shipping box size. Delivery Time: Usually takes 1–2 weeks. Customs, Duties, and Taxes: Import duties, taxes, and fees are NOT included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the sole responsibility of the buyer. You may be contacted by phone or email by your country's customs office or shipping carrier regarding customs clearance. Please ensure you are reachable. If the package is returned to us due to an inability to contact you or unpaid customs fees, you will be charged for the return shipping and reshipment costs. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.