On a vase of striking gourd form, shobu (Japanese iris) are painted in a composition that commands attention.

Irises Against Deep Indigo
Against a ground of deep indigo, sharp leaves rise slender and upright as though keeping a rhythm, and irises of vermilion, orange and pale purple bloom vividly. The refined composition may be called a sense of design rooted deep in the Japanese.

The Shobu, an Auspicious Plant
The shobu has long been counted an auspicious plant: its leaves are shaped like a sword, and its distinctive fragrance was said to drive off malign spirits. Because the word shobu also sounds like the word for a contest, it stands as a wish for advancement in the world and for good health.

Entirely Hand-Painted, One of a Kind
Every decorative vase we handle is a one-off, painted entirely by hand without transfers. It comes with a special paulownia box bearing the artist’s inscription.

Contents and Dimensions
Vase × 1, paulownia box, booklet.
Height: 30.8cm Diameter: 19cm
As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size may occur.