Vase - Porcelain - Japan

This impressive large Satsuma ware vase (薩摩焼) is richly decorated with a magnificent daimyō procession (大名行列), one of the most iconic symbols of Japan's feudal era.

The scene depicts an elegant procession of retainers accompanying a mounted nobleman as they proceed through a grand landscape. Behind the procession stand a large torii gate, a majestic Japanese castle, tranquil waters, and the unmistakable silhouette of Mount Fuji, creating a panoramic composition that celebrates both the beauty of Japan and the prestige of the warrior class.

The artwork is executed in the highly detailed style for which Satsuma ware became internationally renowned. Every figure is individually painted with remarkable care, displaying finely rendered facial expressions, elaborate garments, and intricate decorative patterns highlighted with extensive gilt embellishment.

Daimyō Procession (Sankin-kōtai)
The procession depicted on this vase evokes the grandeur of the daimyō gyōretsu, the formal processions undertaken by feudal lords during the Edo period.

Under the system known as Sankin-kōtai, regional lords were required to travel regularly between their domains and Edo (modern Tokyo). These journeys often involved large groups of samurai, attendants, horses, banners, and ceremonial equipment, creating spectacular displays of wealth, status, and political authority.

The scene portrayed here captures the dignity and pageantry of this important aspect of Japanese history.

Artistic Features
The vase combines many beloved motifs of Japanese art:

A noble daimyō riding a white horse
Processional attendants in richly decorated robes
Traditional banners and ceremonial regalia
A large torii gate
A Japanese castle rising in the background
Mount Fuji
Water and landscape scenery
Cherry blossoms and seasonal elements

The neck and foot are adorned with geometric gilt patterns characteristic of fine export-quality Satsuma ware, while the crackled ivory-colored glaze provides a beautiful contrast to the vivid polychrome decoration.

The composition is exceptionally detailed and remains visually engaging from every angle.

About Satsuma Ware
Satsuma ware is one of Japan's most celebrated ceramic traditions, originating in present-day Kagoshima Prefecture.

During the Meiji and Taishō periods, Satsuma ceramics achieved worldwide acclaim and were highly sought after by collectors in Europe and America. Their combination of finely crackled glaze, elaborate hand-painted decoration, and lavish gold ornamentation made them among the most prestigious Japanese export wares of the period.

Large narrative pieces depicting historical scenes and traditional Japanese culture remain particularly desirable among collectors today.

Condition
The vase displays age-related wear consistent with its age. The intricate decoration, crackled glaze, and overall appearance remain highly attractive and decorative.

Large Satsuma vases depicting detailed daimyō processions and expansive historical landscapes are increasingly difficult to find. Combining Mount Fuji, castle architecture, a torii gate, and a beautifully rendered noble procession, this impressive work captures the romantic spirit of feudal Japan and would make a distinguished addition to any collection of Japanese ceramics, Asian art, or Satsuma ware.

Height 36.8 cm
Center 21.8 cm
Top 14.9 cm
Bottom 14.0 cm
Weight 3010 g

Condition:
The condition is generally good. However, as it is a used item, there are some damages such as scratches, scuffs, dullness, peeling, fading, and discoloration. It has been stored at home. There are many photos, so please take a look.

Atention:
The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase.

Shipping:
The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan.
We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number.
Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding.

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