Satsuma Ceramic Vase / Decorative Floor Vase
Other (Decorative Accessory / Ceramic Vessel) · Japanese Meiji Period (1868-1912) style · Likely manufactured in a traditional Kyoto or Satsuma kiln; often bears fictional Shimazu clan mon marks on the base
Type
Other (Decorative Accessory / Ceramic Vessel)
Style Period
Japanese Meiji Period (1868-1912) style
Material
Ceramic earthenware with hand-painted polychrome enamel and gilt highlights
Age Estimate
Circa late 19th to early 20th century (Meiji to Taisho period)
Dimensions
Estimated height of 18 to 24 inches, width of 8 to 10 inches, consistent with a medium-to-large decorative display vase
Origin
Japanese origin, representative of the export ware created heavily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries for Western markets
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured in a traditional Kyoto or Satsuma kiln; often bears fictional Shimazu clan mon marks on the base
Value Estimate
Estimated retail market value between $300 and $1,200 depending on the exact maker's mark, size, complexity of hand-painting, and overall preservation
Description
An exquisite decorative ceramic vase featuring intricate figurative and floral panels rendered in traditional Japanese Satsuma style. The body showcases finely detailed scenes of samurai and attendants in a landscape against a crackle-glazed cream ground, complemented by a flared neck with dense floral motifs and raised moriage gilt work. The rich palette and meticulous brushwork make it a stunning focal point for traditional or eclectic interiors.
Key Features
Creamy crackle-glaze finish, densely packed figurative scenes of warriors, raised moriage enamel gilding, and traditional floral borders
Color & Finish
Creamy crackle-glaze background (craquelure) with richly saturated polychrome enamels in navy blue, red, green, and extensive gilded (moriage) detailing
Construction Method
Traditional wheel-thrown pottery with hand-applied decorative painting and moriage enamel work
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Exceptional fine-line hand-painting and raised enamelwork demonstrating master-level Japanese ceramic artisan techniques
Wood Grain & Species
N/A
Surface Treatment
High-gloss protective clear glaze over a dense network of intentional fine craze lines, accented with raised moriage enamel and metallic gold leaf detailing
Upholstery Details
N/A
Hardware & Fittings
N/A
Origin & Provenance
Japanese origin, representative of the export ware created heavily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries for Western markets
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition with intact glaze, vivid enamel colors, and minimal wear to the gilt accents, though minor age-related crazing is standard and expected for Satsuma ware
Interesting Facts
Satsuma ware was originally produced in the Satsuma Province of southern Kyushu and gained massive international popularity after being showcased at the 1867 Paris Universal Exposition
Cultural Significance
Significant representation of Meiji-era Japanese export art that bridged Eastern aesthetics with Victorian Western tastes, deeply influencing the Western perception of Japanese craftsmanship
Similar Pieces
Kutani ware and Imari ware; distinguishable by Satsuma's signature ivory-colored crackle-glaze and detailed enamel figures rather than Imari's characteristic blue and rust-red palette
Care & Maintenance
Dust gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners, abrasive pads, or submerging in water to protect the delicate enamel and gilt surface
Value Estimate
Estimated retail market value between $300 and $1,200 depending on the exact maker's mark, size, complexity of hand-painting, and overall preservation
Sustainability Notes
Represents traditional, highly durable craft production utilizing natural earth-derived ceramic materials built to last generations