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

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

Estimated Period: Late Meiji Period (c. 1890–1912)

Condition: Overall good for its age. It bears the natural patina of time, widespread craquelure on the glaze, and minimal signs of wear on the protruding enamels and along the base edge. Nothing more than what is shown 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, almost textile-like effect to the surface.
Applied Elements: The sculpted figures of eagles and the cord tassels are formed separately and applied before the final firing.
Base: Concave base with no visible marks (common in large export ceramics of the period).