Japanese Dochu Hand-Hammered Copper Vase, Hiroshima, Showa c. 1960s–80s

Japanese Dochu Hand-Hammered Copper Vase, Hiroshima, Showa c. 1960s–80s

€165,00 EUR
Product Information

Japanese Dochu hand-hammered copper-alloy vase from Hiroshima, Japan, Shōwa period, c. 1960s–80s. Dochu (銅蟲, also written 銅虫) is a regional Hiroshima metalwork tradition known for copper-alloy vessels with a rich dark brown smoked patina and finely hammered surface.

The vase has a light, compact ovoid body, raised circular rim, and vertical ribbed divisions that give structure to the form. Its surface is covered with fine tsuchime (槌目), meaning hand-hammered marks, creating a small faceted texture that catches the light across the dark patinated metal.

The piece comes with its original bilingual Fukuya paper insert from Hacchobori, Hiroshima. Titled “Origin of Dochuki (Special Product of Hiroshima)”, the insert describes Dochu ware as a Hiroshima speciality with a history of over 300 years, made from copper alloy by hand using a specialised technique.
Context

Dochu ware began during the Kan’ei era through the work of the artisan Kiyoshi Dochu, who was favoured by Lord Asano of Hiroshima. The name comes from the originator, and the craft became known for a style distinct to Hiroshima, with colour and lustre that deepen over time.

This vase reflects that craft language through a simple vessel form, rich smoked colour, and expressive hand-worked surface. The form can be used as a decorative flower vessel, including for ikebana (生け花), the Japanese art of flower arrangement, while also standing as a sculptural metalwork object in its own right.
Measurements

Height: 21.2 cm | Diameter: 11.5 cm | Mouth diameter: 7.7 cm | Weight with box: 670 g
Condition Notes

Excellent vintage condition overall, with minor surface marks and natural irregularities to the hammered patinated finish. Structurally intact with no major dents or cracks. The original Fukuya paper insert is included and shows age-related wear.

Vintage and antique objects may show signs of age and use. Each piece is carefully cleaned before listing. Patina and original surfaces are preserved where appropriate, and minor restoration may be carried out when necessary.

For general information about vintage condition, see the FAQ. If you would like additional photographs or a detailed condition report, please contact us before purchase.
Care Guide

Clean with a soft dry cloth for regular care. After use with water or flowers, clean with warm or cold water if needed, then wipe gently and dry thoroughly before storing, in line with the original Fukuya care guidance. Do not use copper polish, brass polish, acidic cleaners, oils, detergents, abrasive cloths, or soaking, as these may disturb the rich dark patina and original hand-hammered surface.

For more detailed guidance on caring for different materials in our collection, please refer to our general care guide.
Shipping & Returns

We ship from Germany to selected international destinations. Shipping is calculated at checkout.

For deliveries outside the European Union, customs duties or import taxes are not included and may be charged by the destination country.

Full details can be found under Shipping & Delivery and the Return Policy.
Full view of Japanese Dochu copper vase with compact ovoid body, raised rim, and dark hammered surface.
  • Full view of Japanese Dochu copper vase with compact ovoid body, raised rim, and dark hammered surface.
  • Close-up of the mouth and shoulder of a Japanese Dochu copper vase with ribbed body and hammered patina.
  • Detail of Japanese Dochu copper vase showing raised vertical rib and hammered dark patinated surface.
  • Upper view of Japanese Dochu hand-hammered copper vase showing raised circular rim and dark brown surface.
  • Close-up of Japanese Dochu hand-hammered copper vase showing rich dark patina and tsuchime surface texture.
  • Full view of a Japanese Dochu hand-hammered copper vase with rounded ribbed body, raised rim, and Fukuya paper insert below.
  • Underside of Japanese Dochu copper vase showing base mark and dark patinated metal surface.
  • Full view of Japanese Dochu copper vase with compact ovoid body, raised rim, and dark hammered surface.
  • Close-up of the mouth and shoulder of a Japanese Dochu copper vase with ribbed body and hammered patina.
  • Detail of Japanese Dochu copper vase showing raised vertical rib and hammered dark patinated surface.
  • Upper view of Japanese Dochu hand-hammered copper vase showing raised circular rim and dark brown surface.
  • Close-up of Japanese Dochu hand-hammered copper vase showing rich dark patina and tsuchime surface texture.
  • Full view of a Japanese Dochu hand-hammered copper vase with rounded ribbed body, raised rim, and Fukuya paper insert below.
  • Underside of Japanese Dochu copper vase showing base mark and dark patinated metal surface.

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