Height 37.0cm, Diameter 20.8 x 21.6cm, Base Diameter 12.0 x 12.8cm
Kyoto National Museum
This is a very different example from the works of Niami Michihachi. Although Niami was known for his skill in copying Kenzan and other Japanese-style ceramics, this vase is a large-scale work that copies the ancient bronze vase of the Yin and Zhou dynasties. The vase is made from clay with a high iron content, and the patterns are carved in the same way as those on ancient bronze vessels. The shape and patterns are based on those of Shang and Zhou dynasty bronze vessels, and the technique is based on that of Goryeo inlaid celadon ware, making this a truly unique piece that brings together the techniques of China, Korea and Japan in a single vessel. It is also impressive that it is slightly thick and solid, and that it captures the feeling of the ancient bronze flower vase. The tatami mat-shaped bottom has been scraped of the glaze and sand has adhered to it. The bottom is a false bottom, and there are two lines of engraving, but the glaze is thick and the inscription is not clear.
