Hannya Kankei (般若勘渓), Japanese, b. 1933

A Cast-Bronze Vase with Inlaid Decoration (鋳銅象嵌花瓶)

Showa Era (1926-1989), Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)

About the work

A finely crafted cast-bronze vase attributed to Hannya Kankei, showcasing a warm amber-brown patina with elegant decorative inlay. The vessel’s soft, rounded silhouette rises to a slightly flared mouth, its surface adorned with refined geometric motifs and delicate scrolling forms. The subtle sheen of the bronze highlights the artist’s mastery in metalwork, creating a quiet but confident presence.

A harmonious blend of sculptural balance and ornamental restraint, the vase embodies the sophisticated aesthetics of modern Japanese metal artistry, equally suited for floral display or as a contemplative object of beauty.

Accompanied by its original wooden storage box, hand-inscribed on the lid.

Dimensions

16.5cm(h) x 22cm(w)

Footnote

Hannya Kankei was born in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture. A fourth-generation successor of the Hannya family foundry, active since 1870, he is known for his exceptional copper and bronze craftsmanship. Trained under Living National Treasure Katori Masahiko, Hannya first exhibited at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition in 1969 and went on to receive major honors including the Japan Art Crafts Association Prize (1973), Encouragement Prize (1982), and Asahi Shimbun Prize (1985). His work is admired for its technical mastery, formal balance, and deep reverence for Japan’s traditional metalcraft heritage.