Item Description Yamamoto Hōzan 山本鳳山 Cast Bronze Vase with Gold and Silver Inlay — Crane and Tortoise Motif This striking cast bronze vase was crafted by the metalwork artist Hōzan, whose signature (鳳山造) is impressed into the back of the vase and confirmed on the accompanying signed wooden storage box, which is inscribed "鋳銅花瓶" (cast bronze vase) and "鳳山造" (made by Hōzan). The vase has an organic, softly rounded silhouette with an asymmetrical mouth, giving it a sculptural, almost stone-like presence. Its heavily textured, matte dark bronze surface is contrasted beautifully by delicate gold and silver inlay (zōgan) motifs: a pair of standing cranes rendered in silver and gold on one face, and a pair of walking tortoises in the same contrasting metals on the reverse. In Japanese art, cranes and tortoises are classic symbols of longevity and good fortune, making this piece both decorative and auspicious. The heavy, substantial weight of the piece and the quality of the inlay work point to a skilled traditional metal caster working in the tradition of Japanese bronze casting art vases popular through the mid-to-late 20th century. The vase is presented in its original fitted wooden box, adding to its provenance and collectability. Size Height: 20.5 cm Width: 19 cm Depth: 8 cm Weight 2,568 g / 2.568 kg Condition The vase is in excellent condition with no notable scratches, dents, or dirt on the bronze surface; the accompanying wooden storage box shows light general wear and minor surface soiling consistent with age. Artist Profile Hōzan is an artist name used by a line of skilled metal casters working in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, the historic center of Japanese art bronze production. Craftsmen working under the name "Hōzan" have passed the name down through successive generations, with the third-generation artist (born 1949) recognized as a certified traditional craftsman. The workshop specializes in cast bronze vases and vessels featuring fine surface texturing, engraving, and gold and silver inlay, with recurring motifs of cranes and tortoises, paulownia and phoenix, crabs, and other auspicious and natural subjects. NOITICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.