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

A Brass Vase with Goldfish Relief – “Serene Day” (金魚細工 黄銅花瓶- 麗日)

Showa Era (1926–1989)

About the work

An exceptional brass vase by renowned metal artist Neya Churoku, titled “Serene Day”. Executed in a gently rounded form, the vase features a beautifully modeled relief of a swimming goldfish, rendered in soft high relief with delicately incised details. The goldfish motif, with its rippling fins and upward gaze, is harmoniously integrated into the vase’s globular surface, creating a sense of stillness and gentle motion. Tiny raised bubbles rise beside the fish, adding a narrative touch. The vase rests on a discreet, low-set foot and is signed on the base with Neya’s hallmark and seal.

Presented in its original tomobako (signed wooden storage box), this piece exemplifies Neya’s poetic minimalism and mastery of modern Japanese metalwork.

Dimensions

21cm(h) x 20.5cm(w)

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.