About This Piece Against a soft greyish white ground, an aged plum tree rises among an abundance of colorful blossoms, while a single Japanese bush warbler flies toward its branches. This vivid Kutani Ware 九谷焼 vase is brought to life by rich colors, delicate gold detailing, and a finely crackled glazed surface. Design and Motif Across the approximately 27 cm tall vase unfolds a richly detailed floral and bird composition centered on an aged plum tree and a Japanese bush warbler. The aged plum tree forms the heart of the composition. Its substantial trunk and branching limbs are carefully rendered in varying shades of brown, while numerous pale pink plum blossoms spread across the branches. Fully opened flowers appear alongside small buds yet to bloom, with individual petals and stamens depicted in fine detail. Surrounding the plum tree are abundant chrysanthemums in vivid shades of red, pink, and blue. Their many layered petals are accompanied by stems and richly colored green leaves, with even the fine veins of the foliage carefully depicted. Together with the plum blossoms, they create a richly filled composition across the surface of the vase. Adding movement to this profusion of flowers is a single Japanese bush warbler, uguisu 鶯. The bird is captured in flight, approaching the branches of the aged plum tree as if about to land. Its wings and tail are rendered in deep blue tones, its body in vivid green, and its underside in a softer pale yellow. Fine lines delineate the individual feathers of its outstretched wings. Following the aged plum branches across the surface reveals one detail after another. Open plum blossoms, small buds, densely layered chrysanthemums, intricate foliage, and finally the approaching bird create a remarkably detailed painted composition that makes extensive use of the vase surface. Color, Gold Decoration and Surface The body has a subtly greyish white ground, over which pink, red, blue, green, yellow, and brown are layered in a vivid multicolored composition. Fine gold outlining accents the plum and chrysanthemum blossoms, while additional gold decoration appears throughout the painted details. A slender gold colored line also encircles the rim. Even the areas of pale ground without floral decoration have their own distinctive surface character. A transparent glaze covers the vase, with a network of fine crackle known as kannyu 貫入 extending across the glazed surface. These delicate lines against the pale ground create a clear contrast with the vivid flowers, deep green foliage, and strong brown forms of the aged plum tree. Form and Presence The vase has a tall cylindrical form with a gently rounded body, narrowing slightly toward both the mouth and the base. At approximately 27 cm in height, its elongated form provides a broad surface for the aged plum tree to rise vertically while the plum blossoms and chrysanthemums spread outward, creating a strong visual presence. The Meaning of Plum and Bush Warbler The combination of plum and Japanese bush warbler, known as Ume ni Uguisu 梅に鶯, is a traditional pairing that has long appeared in Japanese painting, poetry, and decorative arts. Plum blossoms endure the cold of winter and bloom ahead of spring. The Japanese bush warbler, meanwhile, is traditionally known as Harutsugedori 春告鳥, literally the bird that announces spring, and has long been associated with the arrival of the new season through its distinctive song. Together, plum and bush warbler form an auspicious motif associated with overcoming hardship and welcoming a new beginning. This pairing has been represented in Japanese paintings, poetry, and decorative arts over generations. The combination is also appreciated for the visual harmony between flower and bird, the contrast and balance of their colors and forms, and has been associated with compatibility and a close, harmonious relationship. Mark and Original Wooden Box A red mark is present on the base. The vase comes with its original wooden storage box 共箱. The lid bears the Japanese inscription 御花瓶 meaning flower vase, with an additional mark written beside it. Condition The vase itself is in very good condition. Due to long term storage, some soiling is visible around the foot. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed view of the condition. The original wooden box shows noticeable signs of long term storage, including discoloration, soiling, and cracking. Important Information 1. About the Interior Display Images Images showing the piece displayed in an interior setting have been created virtually to illustrate how the piece may look when displayed indoors. The piece itself has not been edited or altered in these images. For the actual size of the piece, please refer to the dimensions stated in the description. For the actual color and condition, please refer to the photographs showing the piece itself taken directly. 2. Shipping to Italy At the discretion of the Italian customs authorities, the shipment may be subject to additional inspection, and any costs associated with such 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 to 2 weeks, although 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 required customs procedures, the buyer will be responsible for the costs associated with the return shipment and reshipping. Thank you for your understanding.