Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This elegant bronze single-flower vase features a classic squat bulbous body tapering into a tall slender neck with a flared rim. Decorated in delicate gold and silver damascene inlay (zogan), it depicts a poetic Japanese landscape with Mount Fuji, pagodas, and sailboats against a patinated dark metallic ground.
Story
Japanese metal artisans during the late Meiji era adapted ancient sword-fitting inlay techniques to create breathtaking decorative wares for Western collectors. These delicate landscape scenes depicted iconic views of Mount Fuji and coastal temples to captivate travelers.
Maker / Origin
Artisans in workshops such as Nogawa or Kyoto's Amita specialized in 'Nunome-zogan' (cloth-weave inlay). They chiseled micro-grooves into bronze to hammer in fine gold and silver wire, creating luminous, painterly scenes on patinated metal surfaces.
Condition & Value
Shows age-appropriate surface oxidation, minor scuffs on the base, and light patina wear inside the flared rim. The gold inlay on the body remains clear and well-preserved. Condition is good for its age, which preserves moderate market value. Value is determined by size, condition, and attribution to major workshops like Nogawa.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.