About This Piece Deep blue and dark grey marble-like tones are layered with gold decoration across the surface, while the slender crane-neck and generously rounded lower body create a striking silhouette in this large bronze vase. Color and Surface This bronze vase was created by Hōun (峰雲), an artist of Takaoka Bronze Ware (高岡銅器). One of its most distinctive features is the marble-like surface, where deep blue gradually merges with dark grey. Gold decoration extends across the entire surface, creating a complex interplay of deep blue, near-black tones, and gold. Depending on the viewing angle, the blue may become more prominent, the surface may appear darker, or the gold may stand out more strongly. This effect is particularly visible across the broad, rounded body, where deep blue and dark grey marble-like patterns are overlaid with fine areas of gold. The same coloration and gold decoration continue from the slender neck across the shoulders, body, and base, visually unifying the entire vase. Form and Presence The upper section takes the form of a slender, upright tsurukubi (鶴首), or crane-neck, with the mouth opening slightly outward at the rim. In contrast, the lower section has a broad, substantial rounded body. Beneath it, a narrower section leads into a flared foot. The contrast between the elongated upper section and the substantial lower body creates the vase’s distinctive silhouette. Size and Scale Measuring approximately 26 cm in height and 17 cm in diameter, and weighing approximately 2,095 g, this is a large and substantial bronze vase. The broad body, reaching approximately 17 cm in diameter, provides an expansive surface across which the deep blue and dark grey marble-like pattern and gold decoration can be fully appreciated. Its size and weight also allow it to accommodate larger flowers or branches. Even without flowers, the elongated crane-neck, broad rounded body, deep coloration, and gold decoration give the vase a strong visual presence. Artist, Origin and Mark This work was created by Hōun (峰雲), an artist of Takaoka Bronze Ware (高岡銅器). The artist’s mark is engraved on the base of the vase. Original Tomobako The vase is accompanied by its original paulownia-wood tomobako (共箱). The lid bears the artist’s handwritten signature and seal. Condition The condition is very good. As the piece has been stored for a long period, there may be minor marks or scratches. Please refer to the photographs for details of the condition. Important Information 1. About the Interior Display Images Images showing the artwork displayed in an interior setting have been created virtually to illustrate how the piece may look when displayed indoors. The artwork itself has not been edited or altered in these images. For the actual size of the artwork, please refer to the dimensions stated in the item description. For the actual colors and condition, please refer to the photographs showing the artwork itself. 2. Shipping to Italy The shipment may be subject to additional inspection at the discretion of the Italian customs authorities, and any costs associated with such additional inspection will be the responsibility of the buyer. Additional inspection may also cause delays in customs clearance and delivery. Please make your purchase with an understanding of these possibilities. 3. Shipping, Import Duties and Customs Clearance The item will be carefully packed and shipped via DHL or Japan Post. The usual delivery time is approximately 1–2 weeks; however, delivery may take longer depending on customs procedures and local delivery conditions. Import duties, taxes, customs clearance fees, and any other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Any such charges incurred locally are the responsibility of the buyer. If the item is returned due to refusal to pay import duties, taxes, or other customs-related charges, refusal to accept delivery, or failure to complete the necessary customs procedures, the buyer will be responsible for the costs associated with the return shipment and reshipment. Thank you for your understanding.