Yamamoto Hozan II (二代 山本鳳山), Japanese, (b. 1902)

A Bronze Flower Vase - Senmon (線紋)

Taisho Era (1912-1926) or Showa Era (1926-1989) 

About the work

This bronze flower vase, titled Senmon (線紋, “Line Pattern”), is the work of Yamamoto Hozan II, the second generation of the Yamamoto family of Takaoka. Cast in bronze with a rugged, natural surface, the vase is distinguished by a pale circular medallion at its center, inscribed with fine linear markings that give the work its name. The body, with small side perforations and a rounded shoulder rising to a narrow neck and mouth, fuses the rustic strength of bronze with refined sculptural presence. Both functional and artistic, Senmon embodies the Yamamoto family’s tradition of transforming utilitarian craft into expressive works of art.

The piece is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako) and explanatory inserts, attesting to its authenticity and provenance.

Dimensions

15.8cm(h) x 14.5cm(w) x 7.7cm(d)

Footnote

The Yamamoto family of Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, has practiced metalwork for three generations, beginning with knife production before turning to artistic bronze casting. Yamamoto Hōzan II (b. 1902) carried this tradition forward, mastering chūdō (bronze casting) and developing a reputation for richly textured surfaces and modern sculptural forms. In recognition of his achievements, he was honored as a Person of Meritorious Service to the Traditional Craft Industry by the Minister of Commerce, underscoring his pivotal role in advancing Japan’s traditional metalwork. His work reflects both the artisanal roots of Takaoka’s famed casting tradition and the evolving aesthetics of 20th-century Japanese craft.