## Japanese Arita Porcelain Vase – Shuho (秀峰) – Red & White Plum Blossoms with Gold Decoration – Original Wooden Box ### Overview A beautiful Japanese Arita porcelain vase featuring an elegant design of red and white plum blossoms, deep cobalt-blue branches, and luxurious gold decoration. This decorative vase bears the signature "Shuho" (秀峰) on its base and comes with its original wooden presentation box and accompanying Japanese paper inserts. The combination of brilliant white porcelain, vivid red flowers, rich blue details, and shimmering gold creates a striking example of traditional Japanese decorative aesthetics. With its rounded body, gracefully flared opening, and elaborate floral decoration, this vase makes an attractive addition to a Japanese ceramics collection or an elegant interior. ### About Arita Ware – Over 400 Years of Japanese Porcelain Tradition Arita ware (Arita-yaki) is one of Japan's most celebrated traditional porcelain crafts. Its origins date back to the early 17th century, around 1616, when porcelain production began in Arita, Saga Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu in southwestern Japan. Arita became an important center of Japanese porcelain production, developing techniques characterized by beautiful white porcelain, intricate painted decoration, and colorful overglaze enamels. During the Edo period, Arita porcelain was exported to Europe through the port of Imari, where it became highly appreciated by European collectors and aristocratic households. The artistic traditions of Arita porcelain have continued for more than four centuries and remain an important part of Japan's cultural heritage. This vase reflects that decorative tradition through its colorful floral composition and refined gold detailing. ### Design – Red and White Plum Blossoms The vase is decorated with a beautiful arrangement of Japanese plum blossoms, known as "Ume" (梅). The flowers are painted in contrasting shades of red, white, and deep blue, accompanied by expressive cobalt-blue branches and delicate gold accents. The brilliant white porcelain provides an elegant background, allowing the colorful floral decoration to stand out. Gold detailing appears throughout the composition, including the branches, floral outlines, decorative patterns, and the rim of the vase. The rounded body and gently flared mouth create a harmonious silhouette that complements the traditional Japanese design. ### The Cultural Significance of Plum Blossoms Plum blossoms hold a special place in Japanese culture. Because they bloom during the cold season, often before the arrival of spring, they symbolize perseverance, renewal, hope, and the coming of a new season. Red and white are also considered auspicious colors in Japanese tradition, frequently associated with celebration, happiness, and good fortune. The combination of red and white plum blossoms gives this vase a particularly elegant and auspicious character. These traditional motifs make the vase suitable not only for decorative display but also as a meaningful example of Japanese cultural artistry. ### Shuho Signature and Original Wooden Box The underside of the vase bears a blue signature reading "Shuho" (秀峰). The accompanying wooden presentation box features Japanese calligraphy, including the name "Shuho," together with a red seal. The front of the wooden box is inscribed with the Japanese characters "花瓶," meaning "flower vase." The vase also comes with Japanese paper inserts, including a leaflet introducing Arita ware. The original wooden box and accompanying materials add to the appeal of the set for collectors interested in traditional Japanese ceramics. The exact production date and the identity of the individual artist have not been independently verified. ### Decorative Uses This vase is suitable for a variety of decorative purposes: * Displaying seasonal flowers or Japanese ikebana arrangements. * Decorating a traditional Japanese tatami room or tokonoma alcove. * Creating an elegant focal point in a living room or entrance hall. * Displaying on antique furniture, a cabinet, or a mantelpiece. * Combining traditional Japanese craftsmanship with European or contemporary interior design. * Adding to a collection of Japanese porcelain, Arita ware, or Asian decorative arts. The vase is also attractive as a standalone decorative object without flowers. ### Item Details * Item: Japanese decorative flower vase * Origin: Japan * Type: Arita ware (Arita-yaki) * Signature: Shuho (秀峰) * Material: Porcelain * Design: Red and white plum blossoms with cobalt-blue and gold decoration * Main colors: White, red, cobalt blue, and gold * Height: Approximately 21 cm * Maximum width: Approximately 21 cm * Weight of vase: Approximately 1,702 g * Mouth opening: Approximately 10 cm * Other measurements: Please refer to the photographs. * Accessories: Original wooden presentation box and Japanese paper inserts * Production period: Not confirmed * Condition: Pre-owned, very good overall condition ### Condition This is a pre-owned Japanese porcelain vase that has been carefully stored over the years. The vase is in very good overall condition, with no significant visible damage or staining observed in the supplied photographs. The glossy white porcelain, colorful floral decoration, and gold detailing remain attractive. As this is a previously owned and stored item, minor signs of age, storage, or handling may be present. The original wooden presentation box shows age-related wear, including surface marks and discoloration. The accompanying paper inserts may also show signs of age and storage. Please carefully examine all photographs, as they form an important part of the description and show the actual condition of the item. ### Collector's Appeal This Japanese Arita porcelain vase offers an attractive combination of traditional craftsmanship, elegant floral decoration, and cultural significance. Its distinctive red and white plum blossom design, rich cobalt-blue branches, and elaborate gold accents make it a visually striking decorative piece. The presence of the Shuho signature, original wooden presentation box, and Japanese paper inserts adds to its appeal as a collectible Japanese ceramic object. For collectors of Japanese porcelain, traditional Asian decorative arts, or Japanese floral designs, this vase represents an opportunity to acquire an elegant example of Arita-style craftsmanship. It is especially suitable for those who appreciate Japanese aesthetics and the beauty of traditional handcrafted decorative objects. ### Packaging and International Shipping The vase will be carefully packed with protective materials to help ensure safe international transportation. Particular attention will be given to protecting the porcelain body, rim, and delicate decorative surfaces. The original wooden box and accompanying paper inserts will be included. The item will be securely packaged for international shipment from Japan. Please note that any applicable import duties, taxes, or customs charges are the responsibility of the buyer, unless otherwise collected or covered through the marketplace's applicable arrangements. Thank you for your interest in this beautiful piece of Japanese craftsmanship. Keywords: Arita Ware, Arita Porcelain, Japanese Porcelain, Japanese Vase, Shuho Vase, Shuho Pottery, Japanese Ceramics, Japanese Art, Japanese Antique Style, Vintage Japanese Vase, Plum Blossom Vase, Ume Blossom, Red and White Plum, Japanese Floral Art, Gold Decorated Vase, Gilded Porcelain, Cobalt Blue Porcelain, Japanese Decorative Vase, Traditional Japanese Craft, Japanese Flower Vase, Japanese Ikebana, Japanese Home Decor, Asian Decorative Arts, Oriental Porcelain, Japanese Collectibles, Japanese Pottery, Japanese Wooden Box, Japanese Art Collection, Japanese Interior Design, Japanese Cultural Heritage ■Please Note■ Shipping Information: Items are shipped from Japan. As this involves international shipping, please be sure to check the shipping costs before placing a bid. Items are packed with great care to prevent damage during transit. Shipping costs are calculated based on the net weight of the item, packaging materials, and the weight of the shipping box. Depending on the situation, items will be shipped via DHL, FedEx, UPS or Japan Post. Delivery typically takes 1 to 3 weeks. Import duties, taxes, and fees are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. You may be contacted by phone or email by customs authorities in your country or the shipping carrier regarding customs clearance procedures. Please ensure you are available to answer the phone. If the carrier is unable to contact you, the package will be returned to us, and you will be charged double the shipping fee for re-shipment. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.