Cranes Dancing in Snow Japanese Flower Vase
A work by Kutani ware artist Nakamura Toshito, this vase depicts a pair of red-crowned cranes dancing amid a flurry of snow. Symbolizing eternal love, the cranes move through the snowfall, representing life’s challenges. Through this composition, Nakamura expresses how love endures, overcoming hardships with grace.
The vase’s bluish-gray background features the furi technique, in which pigment is scattered across the surface using a fine metal mesh and a specialized brush. Repeated applications create soft gradations and a finely textured effect, adding depth to the wintry sky surrounding the cranes.
Against the gray sky and falling snow, the two cranes appear in contrasting poses. One extends its elongated neck while the other holds back, creating a balance between their postures.
Native to Hokkaido, red-crowned cranes carry deep cultural significance in Japan. Known as tsuru in Japanese, cranes are associated with longevity, as expressed in the proverb, “A crane lives for a thousand years, a tortoise for ten thousand years.” As they mate for life, cranes also represent everlasting love, making this vase meaningful as a gift celebrating long life and enduring devotion.
Please note that Pieces I and II were created at different times and may differ slightly in appearance.
DETAILS
| Quantity | 1 |
| Size |
9.5 cm (3.7 in) x 5.5 cm (2.2 in) x 11.5 cm (4.5 in) [Size of opening] D 1.8 cm (0.7 in) Wooden box: 25.0 cm (9.8 in) x 12.5 cm (4.9 in) x H 27.3 cm (10.7 in) |
| Weight | 911 g (32.1 oz) |
| Material | Porcelain |
| Package Type | Wooden box |
Maker / Brand
Nakamura Toshito is celebrated for his exceptional realism, enlivening nature’s beauty across the surfaces of Kutani ware. His work transcends traditional motifs, blending intricate, lifelike depictions of flora, fauna, and wildlife with refined brush techniques. Viewers are invited to connect deeply with the tranquility and balance found in the natural world through Nakamura’s meticulous attention to detail. His art brings comfort, creating a moment of calm amid the bustle of everyday moments.
Crafts
Kutani ware is a pottery produced in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture, with a history spanning over 350 years. It is characterized by the heavy brilliance of the five colors of navy blue, red, purple, green, and yellow that are applied to the bold and daring lines. Its long history has evolved through the tireless efforts and enthusiasm of people who have sought innovation while maintaining tradition.
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About artist
Musubi Gallery
Since its inception, MUSUBI KILN has strived to introduce the world to the finest traditional crafts from masters all around Japan.
Here, in the Gallery, we seek to showcase the highest echelon of traditional techniques passed down through generations. You can discover works from masters who have not only perfected those methods, but added their imagination to innovate the craft even further.
Some of these masters have even been named Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Heritage, a title bestowed upon them by the Japanese government to formally recognize their contribution to crafts and culture—thereby cementing their legacy and making them an important part of art history.
Each piece is meticulously handcrafted over many months to create a timeless treasure that's unlike any other. And when it's in your home, you, too, will become part of that history.
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