I bought it at a low end consignment auction house and paid $8 for it in a lot with a black lacquered abalone inlaid jewelry box. The description said simply "vase with stand." The stand was way too large and they did not appear to be a pair. It did not come with any paperwork. I have enclosed a closeup photo of the vitrified glaze for you if that will help. I think that I have lucked into a valuable piece of modern art sculpture, but I need more information. Especially, if you can identify the signature. Thank you.

Thank you for the additional information. I'm sorry; I was not able to match the markings on the base to any known ceramicists. I also cannot find works like this that match with known ceramicists. It's an unusual piece. I checked Japanese as well as artists that work in your area of the US and south of the border. Without a known artist name associated with it, the Fair Market Value of the vase would be between $75 and $125 at auction.

Thank you for the information. To be sure, it is a metal vase rather than a ceramic vase. From your note, it sounds as if you were looking at ceramicists rather than metal sculptors. I realize that it is an obscure piece, but I was hoping that you might have some thoughts or info on Japanese glazed metal vases. Please let me know if you looked at metal artists. Thank you.

Yes, I did also look at metalworkers. I searched especially for copper and bronze. I wish I could help you more with this piece.