Large Satsuma vase featuring representations of nobles and children

Pair of large Satsuma vases signed Kinkozan, decorated with scenes inspired by Japanese imperial tradition, crafted with precision and embossed gold. One side of each vase depicts th...

Satsuma ceramic lantern vase signed Matsumoto Hozan, decorated in polychrome enamels and gold within three rectangular reserves. The first reserve shows a peacock; the second shows ...

A Satsuma vase depicting a group of carp swimming in a stream. The scene is depicted from a shore perspective, where partially submerged tree trunks emerge and delicate flowers bloom...

A Satsuma cylindrical vase in the shape of a bottle decorated and painted with polychrome enamels and pure gold. The two reserves present, on one side, a scene of daily life, with g...

A large Japanese ceramic vase from the end of Meiji period circa 1890-1910s by Kinkozan (1645-1927). One of the largest studio manufacturers of the export ceramics at the time based in Kyoto. In the typical style of satsuma made at the turn of 20th century, the vase is elaborately decorated with a rather unusual kinran-de (gold paint) and green enamel highlight on a mottled brown background. The painterly decoration depicts a large seasonal floral arrangement in a circular fashion. Besides the obviously superb craftsmanship, what sets this particular vase apart from many lower quality and mass-produced pieces is its tone-on-tone color pallet that is visually somber and the small and sensitive details that heralds the change of the seasons. When the viewer goes beyond the first casual glimpse of the blossom and foliage, one would notice that on the edges of certain leaves as well as along the stalks, there accumulates a very thin layer of the white dust that represents the frost. The flower in bloom are chrysanthemums. Despite of being splendid, they are the messengers of the autumn. The large lotus leaf was subtly rendered in a bended and slightly withered manner, just past its prime. Although the lotus is still in bloom, the prominent seed pod indicates it may be the last for the season. The sentimental capture of the change of the seasons is not unusual in Japanese art. This vase poetically represents such a subtle transition from summer to fall, perhaps depicting the very first frost. The neck of the vase is also slightly unusual with two rolled rings...

Exceptional and large Satsuma vase with cover with foo dog finial, finely enameled and gilt. Drilled apparently for use previously as table lamp. Firing crack to the lid, otherwise...

A large Meiji period Satsuma earthenware floor vase, the skittle shaped body painted in pastel overglaze enamels and gilding with a continuous frieze of the Seven Gods...

A large Meiji period Satsuma earthenware floor vase, the of baluster form, painted in pastel overglaze enamels and gilding with two large sprays of flowers including prunus blossom, ...