Vase in a globular form, ornamented on the sides with relief motifs of water bugs in rippling water roundels. Of cast bronze with a cloudy-red benido patina. Signed on the reverse with a cast, seal-form signature: Kyomei Chu Kore or Cast by Kyomei (Saito Kyomei, active early – middle 20th century). Early Showa era, circa 1930 – 1940.

With the tomobako or original box, inscribed on the exterior of the lid: Seido-sei Maru-gata Kabin or Rounded Vase Made of Blue Bronze; and on the reverse of the lid signed: Saito Kyomei Isaku or Carefully Made by Saito Kyomei, and sealed.

For another example of his work, c.f. Kagedo’s website: Saito Kyomei, Faceted Bronze Vase.