Strawberry Arabesque Vase

The son of the modern metalwork pioneer Katori Hotsuma, Katori Masahiko was a prolific creator of works that integrated a contemporary sensibility into classical aesthetics. This vase, produced the same year he graduated from Tokyo Fine Arts School and shown at the International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Arts in Paris (commonly known as the Art Deco Exposition), where it won a bronze medal, exemplifies Masahiko’s early work. The vase’s neck is adorned with strawberry petals, and its shoulder features a broad, splendidly flowing strawberry arabesque pattern. The Taisho era (1912–26) was marked by an influx of Western influences and exploration of new modes of expression, and this work reflects that zeitgeist. Its rounded body conveys an elegant atmosphere, and while it is inspired by traditional floral arabesque vases, the strawberry motif points to the influence of Art Nouveau. (M.N.)