Nakajima Yasumi II (二代 中島保美), Japanese (1905–1986)
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A Bronze Flower Vase
Showa Era (1926-1989)
About the work
A graceful bronze flower vase by Nakajima Yasumi II, an esteemed Japanese metal artist celebrated for his refined bronze vessels and exceptional mastery of patination. Combining elegant proportions with meticulous craftsmanship, the vase reflects the artist's ability to transform a simple utilitarian form into a work of quiet sculptural beauty.
The vase is elegantly modelled with a slender trumpet neck that gently narrows at the waist before expanding into a softly rounded lower body. The harmonious silhouette is accentuated by a rich reddish-brown patina, revealing subtle variations in tone that enhance the warmth and depth of the bronze. The restrained form is devoid of unnecessary ornamentation, allowing the graceful contours and refined surface finish to become the focus. Delicate transitions between the neck and body demonstrate the precision of the casting process, while the finely finished patina exemplifies the sophisticated aesthetic that characterises Nakajima's work.
The vase bears the artist's signature on the base and is accompanied by its original wooden storage box, protective cloth, and the original artist's biography sheet.
Dimensions
20.8cm(h) x 6.3cm(w)
Footnote
Nakajima Yasumi II (1905–1986), the art name of Nakajima Mitsuo, was born into a family of distinguished metal artisans in Osaka and succeeded his father, Nakajima Toyoji (Yasumi I), as the second generation Nakajima Yasumi. A member of the All Japan Decorative Art Association, he exhibited widely at the Nitten, Shin-Bunten, and other major exhibitions, receiving numerous awards including the Hokuto Prize at the Nitten, the Mayor's Prize, the Asahi Shimbun Prize, and the Mainichi Shimbun Prize. His work was also exhibited internationally at the Spring Grand Salon in Paris and the Trade Exhibition in Buenos Aires. Widely admired for his elegant bronze vessels and masterful patination, Nakajima Yasumi II is regarded as one of the leading Japanese metal artists of the Showa period.