Title: Japanese Satsuma Ware Kinrande Vase with Samurai & Bijin Panels, Elephant-Head Handles Kiln: Satsuma Ware (萨摩焼) Maker: Hodota (保土田) Dimensions: H 18.5 × Body Diameter 9.5 cm (7.28 × 3.74 in) Weight: 432 g Paulownia Box Dimensions: H 25.2 × W 14 × D 14 cm (9.92 × 5.51 × 5.51 in) Material: Crackle-glazed white Satsuma earthenware, hand-painted mineral enamels, heavy raised gilded kinrande technique Period: Shōwa era, circa 1930–1940 This refined ornamental vase is a premium export Satsuma flower vessel crafted during the mid Shōwa era, an exemplary piece of fully decorated kinrande antique Japanese ceramics. Classic Satsuma ware inherits the decorative ceramic craftsmanship originating from the Edo period. Its signature style, creamy crackled white glaze combined with lavish gilded ornamentation, has long made it a coveted display piece for upscale tea rooms. The entire body is covered in soft off-white crackle glaze covered in delicate natural crazing that delivers a gentle, velvety texture. Stacked mineral glazes paired with intricate raised gilding blend striking luxury with understated wabi-sabi rustic beauty. This piece is entirely hand-thrown, hand-painted with mineral enamels, kiln-fired and finished with gilding. It features well-balanced, elegant proportions: a slim neck flanked by a pair of symmetric sculpted elephant-head handles, and a rounded bulbous body decorated with elaborate framed scenes depicting classic samurai and bijin motifs, embodying the enduring appeal of traditional Japanese ceramic painting. The vase takes a compact, timeless silhouette with a flared mouth, elongated neck and spherical belly, accented by dual elephant-head handles. Its surface is split into multiple framed pictorial cartouches, each holding a distinct scene: one panel shows a group of fully armoured samurai, while another captures noble lords and graceful bijin chatting leisurely. The gaps between these figural panels are filled with seasonal peony and chrysanthemum blossoms, enclosed by dense geometric brocade patterns and twisting floral vines, leaving no empty background across the whole vessel. Every element is rendered with meticulous attention to detail; lifelike facial features, flowing layered kimono folds and delicate flower foliage are all executed with exceptional precision. Layers of coloured enamel combined with fine embossed gilding combine to create a grand, sophisticated noble aesthetic. The base exposes pale unglazed clay, stamped with a clear hand-drawn red kiln mark: Hodota (保土田造). The enamel and gilded finishes are uniform and complete all over the vase. Despite its modest dimensions, it radiates quiet, polished luxury. The vase comes with a later matched paulownia wood storage box lined with yellow textile fabric. The glaze bears faint natural discolouration and mild surface wear consistent with its age. All enamel paint and gilding are fully intact, with no fine hairline cracks or chipped glaze. The overall condition is good relative to its period. Shipping Notice Due to service adjustments, Taiwan Post EMS will suspend parcel deliveries to the following countries effective March 10, 2026: United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel, Pakistan, Maldives, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Greece, Egypt, Morocco. Bidders located in the above regions are kindly requested not to place bids. Note: Delivery to Italy takes approximately 6–7 days. Customs authorities or the courier may reach out to you for customs clearance formalities. Please respond without delay, otherwise the parcel may be sent back to the sender. You may speed up clearance procedures by writing directly to this email address: dogane.malpensa.urp@agenziadogane.it Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. - The photographs form part of the listing description. The actual colour may differ slightly from the photos due to camera hardware and screen display settings. - The successful bidder will be responsible for any customs duties and taxes (if applicable). - This item will be mailed by the postal service of Taiwan in the form of airmail with insurance attached.