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

A Brass Vase with Flying Fish Motif (飛魚図黄銅花瓶)

Showa Era (1926–1989)

About the work

This brass vase by Neya Churoku presents a refined blend of sculptural relief and smooth metalwork. The form is tall and gently tapering, with a softly rounded shoulder and a narrow mouth that lends the piece an understated elegance. Across the warm brown surface, a single flying fish is rendered in raised, gold-toned relief, its fins and tail fanning out in a dynamic yet harmonious arc. The contrast between polished relief and matte ground heightens the sense of motion while preserving the quiet dignity characteristic of Churoku’s metalwork. 

The underside bears impressed marks, and the piece comes with its original signed tomobako. A small exhibition label with the wording “Sale exhibition of works by leading artists and notable figures, Asahi Shimbun Social Welfare and Cultural Projects Organisation (一流美術家と名士の作品即売展 朝日新聞厚生文化事業団) remain inside the box, attesting to its authenticity.

Dimensions

22.8cm(h) x 13.5cm(w)

Weight: 1744g

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.