Vase - Ceramic - Japan - Meiji period (1868-1912) - Fine 800 Satsuma, Japan

Large-format Japanese ceramic vase, finely decorated in the characteristic Satsuma style of the late Meiji period. The surface features a rich, dense polychrome relief enameling (moriage) in shades of cobalt blue, green, gold, and raw sienna. The body bears shaped reserves painted with figures of traditional sages/immortals and central medallions depicting a stylized phoenix/crane within geometric motifs. On the sides are majestic high-relief sculptures portraying a raptor (eagle/falcon) and decorative tassel/mizuhiki knots. The upper rim presents a lobed edge with subtle underglaze blue decorations, and the interior shows the classic crackled glaze (craquelé).

Estimated Period: Late Meiji period (circa 1890–1912)

Condition: Overall good condition for its age. It bears the natural patina of time, widespread craquelé on the glaze, and minimal signs of wear on the raised enamels and along the base edge. Nothing more than what is seen in the photos. Overall, it is very well preserved.

Technical Details to Note
Moriage: The high relief of the enamels gives a strong three-dimensional and textile-like effect to the surface.
Applied Elements: The sculpted figures of the eagles and the corded passerby elements are shaped separately and applied before the final firing.
Base: Concave bottom with no visible marks (common in large export ceramics of the period).