Item Description This substantial disc-shaped vase is a fine example of Takaoka Dōki, the traditional casting craft passed down in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture. Its broad, low body sits atop a short foot ring, from which a compact cylindrical neck rises — creating a stable and powerful silhouette. Around the shoulder, a band of low-relief cranes in flight encircles the entire vessel against a stippled ground pattern. Each crane is carefully rendered, with fine detail given to the texture of the feathers and the spread of the wings. Because the design wraps fully around the piece, the flock of cranes appears to be circling the vase in flight. Within the band of crane motifs, a small maker's or foundry mark has been cast into the surface. The vase bears a mottled verdigris-style finish in shades of green with reddish-brown variations, evoking the appearance of aged bronze. This type of surface treatment is characteristic of high-quality Takaoka Dōki. The piece is unused and has never been used to hold water or flowers. Dimensions Height: 13.5 cm Width: 18 cm Depth: 18 cm Weight 973 g Condition Unused, with no signs of wear from use or display. The verdigris-style finish shows natural variation, which is attributable to the hand-finishing process inherent to this craft and falls within the normal range. Additional Information Origin: Japan, Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture Craft Tradition: Takaoka Dōki (designated a national Traditional Craft in 1975; casting history dates to 1609) Materials: Cast metal with a mottled verdigris-style finish Decoration: All-round low-relief motif of cranes in flight No individual artist name is indicated on this piece. A small maker's or foundry mark is visible within the decorative band, but the specific artist has not been identified. The item will be carefully packaged and shipped by Japan Post or DHL, depending on the situation. Due to the changes to the EU tax-free (VAT) system, Japan Post has become unable to ship certain goods valued at €150 or less to an increasing number of European countries. Depending on the destination and circumstances, the shipping method may therefore be changed from Japan Post to DHL. Delivery normally takes approximately 3 weeks, or up to 3 months if the item is shipped by sea. Please note that import duties, taxes, customs fees, and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. For customs clearance, your local customs office or delivery company may contact you by phone or email. To avoid any delays or the return of the parcel, please ensure that you can respond promptly to any such requests. If the parcel is returned due to an inability to contact you or complete customs clearance, additional shipping charges, which may be more than twice the original shipping cost, will apply for reshipment. Thank you for your kind understanding and cooperation. We will do our utmost to ensure that your item arrives safely and without any issues.