Nakajima Yasumi II (二代 中島保美), Japanese (1905–1986)

A Cast Bronze Jue Ritual Vessel (青銅爵)

Showa Era (1926-1989)

About the work

A striking cast bronze jue by Nakajima Yasumi II, inspired by the ancient Chinese ritual wine vessels of the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Rather than simply reproducing an archaeological prototype, Nakajima interprets the historic form with a distinctly sculptural sensibility, emphasising its dramatic silhouette and archaic character.

The vessel stands upon three slender, blade like legs supporting a compact central body. Above, the rim extends dramatically into a long curved spout balanced by a pointed tail, while two upright posts rise from the mouth. A small loop handle and restrained relief decoration further reference the complex construction and ornament of early Chinese bronzes.

Particularly attractive is the deliberately aged surface. Layers of muted green, turquoise, ochre and earthy brown patination create the appearance of an excavated ancient bronze, collecting unevenly around the relief and recessed areas. This varied finish gives the vessel considerable visual depth and enhances its archaeological character while retaining the precision of a twentieth century Japanese art bronze.

The work is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako).

Dimensions

17.3cm(h) x 15.6cm(w) x 9.3cm(d)

Weight: 763g

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.