Features
◆ Twin beast-head handles, boldly imposing
A beast-head handle in relief is set on each side, its contour spreading outwards, which makes the body of the vessel look wider and more solid. The beast-head form itself carries the dignity and protective meaning often found in classical vessels, and it also makes this vase easier to recognise than an ordinary vase without handles.
◆ A copper body, weighty and with the feel of an antique
From its appearance the body is copper or a copper alloy, the surface showing dark brown and bronze tones with brighter metallic areas in places. This material is heavier than ceramic and also shows the natural oxidation and patina of an antique to better effect.
◆ Rich floral reserve panels
Several round floral reserve panels can be seen on the body. Peony, chrysanthemum and other flower and plant motifs are painted within the different panels, separated from one another by the dark brown metal ground and coloured ornament, which gives the composition very complete depth.
◆ Peony and chrysanthemum, rich in auspicious meaning
The peony is commonly seen as a symbol of wealth, abundance and splendour, while the chrysanthemum is often associated with long life, integrity, autumn and the culture of the Japanese imperial house. With both appearing on the body together, the piece is not only decorative but also carries a complete set of Eastern auspicious meanings.
◆ Fine brocade and geometric bands
Between the shoulder, the neck and the body there are many repeating geometric, triangular, scrolling-vine and ruyi motifs. These patterns do not merely fill space; they divide the whole vase into clear decorative registers and make the body look more ordered.
◆ Splendid colour without being garish
The main colours are concentrated in:
Pink
Blue-green
Blue
White
Red
Yellow
Because the ground is a deep bronze colour, the highly saturated flowers do not become overpowering and the effect is instead mature and refined.
◆ A wide-mouthed vase, practical for arranging flowers
The mouth is about 14.5 cm across, considerably wider than an ordinary narrow-necked vase. Used as a working flower vase, it can take heavier material, for example:
Peony, chrysanthemum, plum branches, maple branches, pine branches or large leafy stems. It also suits layered Eastern-style arrangements.
◆ A swelling body with strong presence
The body is about 22 cm wide at its middle and 30.5 cm high, making this a medium-to-large display vase overall. The swelling body gives the piece a solid look, with nothing thin or slight about it.
◆ A tall foot ring for more complete proportions
There is a pronounced tall foot ring below, lifting the body slightly. Besides adding stability, this design leaves space between the painted lower body and the table top, so it looks more like a formal display vessel.
◆ A natural bronze patina
The photographs show that the metal surface is not entirely even: there are lighter and darker tones, oxidation and wear in places. These traces of time give the piece more of an antique character, and are more appealing to a collector than re-polishing it to bright copper.
◆ Displays well on its own, even without flowers
Because the decoration on the body is already so complete, it can be shown simply as a large metalwork object even without flowers. It is especially suited to being enjoyed on its own in an entrance hall, a study, a display case or on an old wooden cabinet.