Some objects are more than functional—they are expressions of an artist’s inner world. This limited edition Japanese bronze vase by Masuo Ikeda is such a piece. Both a vessel and a sculpture, it reflects the vision of one of Japan’s most prolific modern artists, whose work transcended disciplines, mediums, and conventions.
The Story Behind This Piece
Masuo Ikeda (1934–1997) was not just a visual artist. He was also a novelist, film director, and a restless innovator who worked across painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, and literature. Awarded the prestigious Akutagawa Prize for fiction, Ikeda gained international recognition not only in Japan but across Europe and the United States.
This vase is part of a limited edition series of 100, with this example marked No. 14/100. It comes in its original signed wooden box, with documentation attesting to its authenticity. The artist’s signature, “Masuo,” is inscribed on the body—a quiet but powerful claim of authorship.
Created in the late 20th century, the piece bridges the worlds of Japanese antiques and contemporary art, embodying both historical reverence and modernist energy.
Aesthetics and Features That Set It Apart
- Material and Patina: Made from solid bronze, the vase has developed a rich green-blue patina, enhancing its natural textures and sculptural shadows. This aging process is prized among collectors of bronzeware.
- Form and Texture: The contours are abstract and bold, evoking geological forms or the fluidity of molten material. The surface bears irregularities and dynamic ridges—hallmarks of intentional imperfection and tactile interest.
- Signature and Provenance: The artist’s name, Masuo, is engraved directly onto the surface. The accompanying signed box adds historical value and ensures provenance, making this a prized piece for serious collectors.
This vase is not only a vessel for flowers—it is a contemplative object d’art worthy of display in modern galleries, design-conscious homes, or collections of Japanese modernist sculpture.
A Coveted Object for Global Collectors
For collectors of Japanese antiques, bronze art, or modern Japanese design, this vase represents a rare opportunity. Limited edition works by Masuo Ikeda are seldom seen on the open market, especially those accompanied by original boxes and authentication.
Its appeal spans:
- Modern interior designers seeking a sculptural focal point
- Collectors of avant-garde Japanese bronzeware
- Enthusiasts of artists like Isamu Noguchi, Taro Okamoto, or Shiko Munakata
- Institutions or galleries specializing in postwar Japanese art
This is not merely an antique. It is a piece of cultural history—where Meiji-era metalworking traditions meet the spirit of Japanese modernism.
Conclusion: An Enduring Vision Cast in Bronze
This bronze flower vase by Masuo Ikeda speaks to a lifelong pursuit of artistic expression across borders and boundaries. Whether admired as a sculptural form, used in ikebana, or treasured as a rare collectible, it offers both aesthetic and intellectual reward.
If the item is already sold out, please explore other remarkable works in our collection:
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