About This Piece A beautiful blend of deep khaki and grey marble-like patterns, delicately shimmering gold accents, dragon-head handles, and sculpted peony reliefs gives this bronze vase an elegant balance of richness and refinement. Design and Craftsmanship This vase features a striking contrast between its richly decorated upper section and its simple, rounded lower body. A slender, elongated neck is flanked by two handles shaped like dragon heads. The dragons feature finely defined eyes and facial details, while the handles curve gracefully downward, ending in scroll-like forms. Directly beneath them, a band of raised relief decoration depicts blooming peonies surrounded by leaves and flowing botanical patterns. Fine lines define the petals, giving the floral design a richly detailed appearance. The peony reliefs have a pale grey tone that contrasts beautifully with the darker neck and body. Together, the dragon-head handles and sculpted peonies create an ornate upper section, balanced by the understated simplicity of the lower body. Color and Surface One of the vase's most distinctive features is its marble-like finish, ranging from deep khaki to grey, enhanced by a delicate layer of gold-colored decoration. From a distance, the vase appears a rich, subdued khaki. Up close, intricate speckled and fine web-like patterns become visible. Depending on the lighting, the grey tones and shimmering gold accents become more pronounced, revealing different aspects of the surface. Form and Presence This bronze vase measures 25 cm in height and weighs 878 g. Its generously rounded body rises into shoulders adorned with peony reliefs, a slender neck, and a pair of dragon-head handles, creating an elegant and distinctive silhouette. Condition The vase is in very good overall condition, with no major scratches or noticeable discoloration. As an older piece that has been stored for an extended period, it has some light surface dirt. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed view of its condition. Artist, Origin and Signature This bronze vase is an example of Takaoka Bronze Ware (高岡銅器), a traditional Japanese metal craft, by the artist Katsuhō (勝峰). The artist's signature is engraved on the underside of the vase and can be seen in the photographs. Important Information 1. About the Interior Display Images Images showing the piece displayed in an interior setting have been virtually created to illustrate how it 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 its actual color and condition, please refer to the photographs taken directly of the piece on its own. 2. Shipping to Italy Shipments to Italy may be subject to additional inspections at the discretion of the Italian customs authorities. Any costs arising from such inspections are the responsibility of the buyer. Additional inspections may also cause delays in customs clearance and delivery. Please take these possibilities into consideration before purchasing. 3. Shipping, Import Duties, and Customs Clearance The item will be carefully packaged and shipped via DHL or Japan Post. The usual delivery time is approximately 1–2 weeks, although customs procedures and local delivery conditions may result in longer delivery times. Import duties, taxes, customs clearance fees, and any other related charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Any such charges incurred in the destination country 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 all costs associated with the return and reshipment of the item. Please ensure that you understand and accept these conditions.