Vintage Japanese Gilded Clay Orizuru Crane Figurine, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0599-1

Vintage Japanese Gilded Clay Orizuru Crane Figurine, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0599-1

A gilded clay orizuru -- the folded crane -- rendered in three dimensions and dressed in gold and lavender, a luminous symbol of longevity and good fortune.

An orizuru is the Japanese folded-paper crane, one of the most beloved symbols in Japanese culture, representing longevity, peace, and auspicious blessings. This exceptional vintage Japanese craft object reimagines the familiar origami form in solid clay, faithfully preserving every angular fold -- outstretched wings, upswept tail, arching neck, and pointed beak -- in a durable, displayable sculpture. The entire surface is finished in a brilliant metallic gold overglaze, punctuated by scattered lavender-purple speckles that give the piece a rich, painterly texture. A small red accent at the beak tip adds a vivid focal point, echoing the red-crowned tsuru of Japanese tradition. The piece retains its original paulownia wood (kiri) storage box, inscribed with the title "orizuru" in brushwork script alongside a red artist seal and the character for "murasaki" (purple), indicating this work belongs to a named series or artist designation -- hallmarks of a considered, collectible Japanese vintage figurine.

Today this gilded orizuru makes a striking living room accent or bedroom decor piece on a shelf, mantle, or display cabinet. Its compact scale and bold gold presence suit a Japandi style interior or a minimalist decor setting equally well, where a single meaningful object speaks clearly. It would also serve beautifully as a tokonoma (alcove) display alongside a seasonal flower arrangement or incense holder. As a unique gift for collectors, a housewarming gift, or a gift for Japanophiles, it arrives complete with its original kiri wood box -- a presentation-ready treasure that carries genuine cultural resonance and decades of character.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Clay body with metallic gold overglaze and lavender speckle decoration; red accent at beak; original kiri wood (paulownia) storage box
• Use: Decorative display figurine; auspicious gift object
• Modern Use: Living room or bedroom display accent; tokonoma or shelf vignette centerpiece; presentation-ready gift for collectors or Japanophiles
• Features: Three-dimensional orizuru (folded crane) form with angular wings, upswept tail, arching neck, and pointed beak; all-over metallic gold finish with scattered lavender-purple speckle overglaze; red beak accent; original kiri wood storage box with brushwork title inscription, red artist seal, and "murasaki" (purple) character notation
• Dimensions: 4 3/4"W x 3 3/4"H
• Condition: Excellent

A radiant piece of vintage Japanese decorative art -- where the ancient art of origami is reborn in gilded clay, bringing the timeless symbolism of the orizuru into any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.