Title: Japanese Gilded Bronze Dragon with Jewel Hanaire (花入) Vase Technique: Traditional lost-wax cast bronze Material: Bronze alloy, gilded, inlaid crystal bead (dragon jewel) Dimensions: H 16.3 × DIA 10 cm (6.4 × 3.9 in) excl. crystal bead Weight: 1207 g Period: Shōwa Period, c. 1970-1980 This is a fine traditional Japanese gilded bronze dragon hanaire (花入 /flower vase) from the Shōwa period – a classic example of traditional Japanese bronze metalwork. Made using traditional Japanese bronze casting methods, with precision lost-wax casting. Crafted from bronze alloy, finished with traditional oxidation patina and gilding. An elegant flower vessel combining auspicious symbolism with powerful presence. Perfect for Japanese-style interiors, scholar's desk display, or for specialised collections of modern Japanese metalwork. The vessel is in the form of a flared-mouth hanaire (花入), with a dignified, upright form and strong, vigorous lines. The body features raised relief cloud and dragon patterns, with solid, three-dimensional depth and exquisitely detailed carving. The dragon patterns flow with magnificent, powerful presence. The dragon's body is gilded, and a natural crystal bead is inlaid in the dragon's claw as the dragon jewel – the classic "dragon playing with jewel" motif. A traditional auspicious design across East Asia, symbolising good fortune, wealth, warding off evil, and auspicious blessings. The mouth rim flares outwards, with a cylindrical base – a classic, ingenious form that is both stable and highly decorative. The dragon with jewel motif is a traditional auspicious theme across East Asia. The dragon jewel symbolises wisdom and light, and the dragon playing with the jewel symbolises soaring success and rising fortunes. Deeply cherished across all social classes. The gilding is masterfully executed, with the gold contrasting sharply against the dark bronze ground, creating a rich, luxurious texture. Unmarked. A fine example of traditional Japanese lost-wax metalwork, possibly from the Takaoka copperware tradition. Natural age patina and signs of wear consistent with period. Minor gilding oxidation and wear/loss to the dragon. No significant scratches, dents, chips, or restoration. Overall good condition. Shipping Notice Due to service adjustments, Taiwan Post EMS will suspend parcel deliveries to the following countries effective March 10, 2026: United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel, Pakistan, Maldives, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Greece, Egypt, Morocco. Bidders located in the above regions are kindly requested not to place bids. Note: Delivery to Italy takes approximately 6–7 days. Customs or the courier may contact you for customs clearance. Kindly reply promptly, as delays may result in the package being returned. Contacting them directly can help speed up the process: dogane.malpensa.urp@agenziadogane.it Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. - The picture is part of the description. The color of the item may be slightly different from the picture (due to camera and screen settings). - The successful bidder will be responsible for any customs duties and taxes (if applicable). - This item will be mailed by the postal service of Taiwan in the form of airmail with insurance attached.