An Exquisite Piece of Japanese Art Porcelain: Kutani Ware Flower Vase with Imperial Crest This is a stunning and highly elegant Japanese porcelain flower vase featuring an Imperial Chrysanthemum Crest, Fine Gold Gilt, and a meticulous Flower-and-Bird Painting (Kachō-zu). The vase beautifully showcases the vibrant polychrome enamels and rich gold accents characteristic of high-end Kutani style. At the center, the prestigious sixteen-petal gold chrysanthemum crest stands out, surrounded by a gracefully rendered seasonal chrysanthemum garden and a charming bird resting on a branch. The neck and the foot are further adorned with traditional blue-and-white geometric and wave patterns, creating a magnificent contrast with the pure white porcelain base. The bottom bears a gold-gilded square artisan mark reading "Shotou" (昭陶). This particular signature is associated with a highly skilled workshop active during the mid-to-late Showa period. They specialized in crafting prestigious, top-tier commemorative gifts and imperial-related items for the government and elite corporations, renowned for their flawless white porcelain and exceptionally refined overglaze paintings. Estimated to be from the late Showa period (around the 1970s-1980s), a time when high-quality porcelain with the Imperial Chrysanthemum Crest was crafted by skilled artisans for prestigious gift-giving or commemorative purposes. It comes complete with its original, signed and sealed wooden box (Tomobako), adding substantial collective value. Condition: Very good vintage condition. There are no chips, cracks, or hairlines. The porcelain retains its brilliant luster, and the colors remain remarkably vivid. Minor, natural wear on the gold-gilded rim due to age, as expected for a vintage piece. Please inspect the provided photos carefully for closer details. Dimensions & Weight Height: 24 cm Width: 16 cm Depth: 16cm Weight: 1700 grams (including the wooden box) Shipping Method Courier: Shipped via DHL or EMS (Japan Post). Handling: Will be packed with utmost professional care, utilizing ample cushioning to ensure safe transit. Tracking & Insurance: Fully tracked and insured. (Note: Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility.) Please note that as of 1 July 2026, the EU has abolished the de minimis customs exemption. All shipments to EU countries are now subject to import duties and VAT regardless of the declared value of the goods. For shipments with a declared value under €150, an additional customs processing fee of €3 may also apply.