Neya Churoku (根箭忠緑), Japanese (1897–1987)

A Copper Vase with Floral Decoration (銅製花文花入)

Taishō Era (1912–1926) or Shōwa Era (1926–1989)

About the work

A decorative copper vase by Neya Churoku, combining a tall, rounded form with a
geometric arrangement of warm copper and gold-toned panels. Small stylised floral
motifs introduce a natural subject into the otherwise architectural composition.
The body swells through the middle and narrows towards both the shoulder and foot.
A restrained opening completes the upper silhouette, while a defined lower band
provides a stable visual foundation. The proportions allow the repeating panel
structure to be appreciated across the full height of the vessel.
Incised boundaries divide the surface into alternating fields, whose contrasting tones
change with the light. Within selected panels, delicate flower stems and small
blossoms are worked in shallow detail. Their compact scale preserves the dominance
of the overall geometric design.
The combination of metal colour, panel rhythm and floral ornament gives the vase a
composed decorative presence. Maker’s marks appear on the underside, completing
a vessel whose appeal rests on the balance between its rounded silhouette and
precisely arranged surface decoration.

Dimensions

27.5cm(h) x 16cm(w)

Weight: 2345g

Footnote

Neya Churoku (根箭忠緑), born in Osaka in 1897, was a distinguished
Japanese metal artist known for his refined and minimalist bronze works, often
drawing inspiration from nature and geometry. He studied at the Tokyo School of Fine
Arts and exhibited at the prestigious Teiten (Imperial Art Exhibition), where he was
awarded the top prize in 1934. Neya represented Japan at the 1933 World Art Fair in
Chicago, contributing to Japan’s modern cultural diplomacy through design.
Neya’s works bridge traditional Japanese metalworking with modern design
sensibilities, evident in both decorative and functional works.