Description
A striking and architectural Japanese bronze vase from the early 20th century, embodying the clean lines and bold geometry of the Art Deco period.
This piece is defined by its tall cylindrical form, interrupted at the center by a raised rectangular celtic band featuring a symmetrical geometric medallion. The design—reminiscent of an infinity or interlocking motif—adds both visual weight and balance, anchoring the otherwise minimalist silhouette.
The surface carries a rich, naturally developed dark bronze patina, with soft tonal variations ranging from warm brown to subtle charcoal hues. The finish is understated and refined, allowing the strength of the form and the precision of the design to take center stage.
Unlike earlier, more ornate Meiji bronzes, this example reflects a shift toward modernism—where simplicity, proportion, and design harmony became paramount. The result is a piece that feels both timeless and distinctly of its era.
Bronze objects like this are created through a centuries-old process known as casting, most commonly using the lost-wax method (cire perdue).
The process begins with a full model of the object sculpted in wax. This wax model captures every detail of the final form. It is then encased in a clay or plaster mold. Once heated, the wax melts away—leaving a hollow cavity inside the mold.
Molten bronze—an alloy of copper and tin—is then poured into this cavity at extremely high temperatures. After cooling, the outer mold is broken away, revealing the raw bronze form beneath.
From there, the surface is carefully refined by hand. Details are sharpened, textures are adjusted, and finally, a patina is applied through controlled oxidation—using heat and chemical treatments to achieve the deep, nuanced tones seen here.
Each step requires precision and experience, and no two cast bronzes ever emerge exactly the same—giving each piece a unique surface and character.
In the early 20th century, Japanese artists and metalworkers began incorporating Western design influences, particularly those of the Art Deco movement. These works often feature clean geometry, symmetry, and restrained ornamentation, while still maintaining the exceptional craftsmanship Japan is known for.
Signed on bottom Tomiyasu Aida (1901 – 1987) – Born in Tateyama City, Chiba prefecture and studied metal casting under Yamamoto Azumi (1880 – 1945), also a graduate of the metal casting departmetn at the Tokyo School of Fine Art. Between 1929 – 1957 he exhibited regularly at the annual government-sponsored exhibitions, the Teiten, Shin-Bunten and Nitten, winning the grand prize at the 1949 Nitten. Internationally he successfully exhibited at the New York Worlds fair and at the Golden Gate International Exposition in 1939 and became known for his Art Deco-inspired style evident in this example.
Age: Early 20th Century Circa 1920’s
Dimensions: 11 1/2″ x 4″