Maker / Brand: Kutani Yoshimi Title of Work: Decorative Jar with Phoenix and Peonies OPENING HOOK: A rare and exquisite example of Meiji-era export Kutani ware, this lidded jar immediately captivates with its vibrant *aka-e* palette and a grand, dynamic depiction of a mythical bird amidst a profusion of peonies. Pieces of this scale and with their original lids are a true discovery for serious collectors, embodying the allure of Japanese artistry that enchanted the Western world. Artistic Background, Kutani Ware TIME-TRAVEL PARAGRAPH: Journey back to the late 19th century, to the foothills of Ishikawa Prefecture where the kilns of Kutani blazed, transforming raw clay into works of art destined for drawing rooms across Europe and America. This was a period of intense innovation and global fascination with Japan, and Kutani ware, with its distinctive overglaze enamels, stood at the forefront. Artisans, working with a steady hand amidst the heat and the scent of woodsmoke, careful applied vibrant pigments, continuing a tradition that, though revived from its earlier Edo period glory, now embraced new forms and decorative flourishes to meet international demand. This piece, a testament to that era, carries the legacy of centuries of skill, each brushstroke a whisper from a time when Japanese aesthetics first truly captivated the world. Design and Technique, Polychrome Enamels and *Kanyu* IMAGE-DRIVEN PARAGRAPH: The surface of this jar is a canvas of crackled ivory, where a finely articulated *kanyu* glaze, a network of delicate fissures, adds a profound sense of age and tactile depth. Against this subtly aged ground, a magnificent, long-tailed mythical bird, possibly a *ho-o* or phoenix, takes flight. Its plumage is rendered in exquisite detail, a symphony of soft blues, crisp whites, rich reds, and shimmering golds, each feather careful delineated. Surrounding this auspicious creature are lush, full-bodied peonies (*botan*), their petals rendered in vibrant iron red and gold, interspersed with deep forest green leaves. These motifs are not merely decorative; the *ho-o* symbolizes good fortune and peace, while the peony represents wealth and honor in Japanese culture, imbuing the piece with layers of symbolic meaning that resonate deeply. Form and Aesthetic Qualities Silhouette: The classical baluster form of the jar, tapering elegantly from a broad shoulder to a stable, slightly flared foot, is perfectly complemented by its tiered lid. The lid itself, crowned with a distinctive pointed finial, creates a harmonious verticality, inviting the eye to trace its graceful contours. Surface: Beyond the visual splendor, the surface offers a tactile experience. The rich, crackled *kanyu* glaze provides a subtle texture under the fingertips, while the raised overglaze enamels of the design offer a delicate relief. Bands of warm iron red, adorned with intricate gold geometric patterns, frame the composition at the lid's rim and the foot, anchoring the vibrant central imagery. Presence: This lidded jar possesses an undeniable commanding presence. Its substantial size, combined with the energetic composition of the flying bird and blooming peonies, ensures it draws the eye and sparks conversation. It is a piece designed not merely to decorate, but to inspire contemplation and admiration, a focal point in any refined interior. Collectible Value Rarity: Pieces from the Meiji export era, particularly those that have retained their original lids and remain in such commendable condition, are increasingly difficult to acquire. The specific mark of Kutani Yoshitomi, combined with its designation as an export piece, points to a specific historical context and a quality of craftsmanship highly sought after by discerning collectors. Versatility: While rooted deeply in traditional Japanese aesthetics, the bold colors and dynamic composition of this jar allow it to transcend stylistic boundaries. It would be equally at home as a vibrant accent in a minimalist contemporary space, a jewel amidst a collection of Asian art, or a sophisticated statement in a classically furnished room, offering endless possibilities for display. Heritage: Owning this Kutani ware jar is to possess a tangible link to a key moment in Japanese art history – the Meiji era, when the nation opened to the world and its artistic traditions captivated international audiences. It represents not just an object of beauty, but a cultural artifact, a testament to the enduring skill of Japanese artisans and the global exchange of aesthetics. CLOSING: As exceptional examples of Meiji-era Kutani ware with their original components become ever more elusive, this lidded jar presents a unique opportunity for both the seasoned collector and the passionate newcomer to acquire a piece of profound historical and artistic significance. Shipping from Japan with Tracking Number & Insurance. I promise fast shipping via FedEx or DHL as soon as possible! Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. These charges are normally collected by the delivering freight (shipping) company or when you pick the item up - do not confuse them for additional shipping charges.