Chokin Style Appraisal

Japanese Black Hexagonal Chokin-Style Vase

This is a tall, slender hexagonal porcelain vase featuring a deep obsidian black high-gloss glaze. The primary decorative motif is a floral arrangement of irises composed of metallic overlays, typical of the Japanese Chokin art style. The irises are rendered in varying metallic tones, including copper and silver lusters, with green etched accents for the foliage. The vase stands approximately 8 to 10 inches tall with a faceted body that tapers slightly towards the base and leads to a narrow, rounded rim. The construction is ceramic, likely mass-produced in the late 20th century (c. 1970s-1980s) for the export market. The craftsmanship shows precise lines in the metallic etching, though the application is likely industrial rather than hand-worked by a master artist. Condition-wise, the vase appears to be in good structural shape with no visible cracks or large chips; however, the high-gloss black surface reveals minor surface scratches and fingerprints, and there may be slight tarnishing on the metallic leafing. There are no signatures visible on the front, but mass-produced items of this era often contain a gold or red 'Made in Japan' stamp on the bottom. The hexagonal shape is a common geometric choice for Mid-Century and later Japanese export wares, balancing traditional floral themes with modern angularity.