Exceptional Japanese porcelain vase from the Hichōzan Fukagawa workshop in Arita, decorated in the traditional Imari style, dating to approximately 1870, early Meiji period. The 21 cm high vase has a beautifully proportioned, rounded body with an elegant narrow neck and raised foot. It is richly decorated with large peony and chrysanthemum flowers, flowering branches and foliage. The decoration is executed in a striking traditional Imari palette of cobalt blue, iron red, green and extensive gilt decoration, against a bright white porcelain ground. The combination of the deep blue, vibrant red and finely applied gold creates a particularly luxurious and sophisticated appearance. The underside is marked in underglaze blue with the Hichōzan Fukagawa-sei mark. This mark is associated with the early Fukagawa workshops in Arita. Comparable examples bearing this mark are documented in museum collections and are generally associated with the mid-19th century to early Meiji period, approximately 1856–1875. The present vase is particularly impressive because of its elaborate Imari decoration and exceptionally well-preserved condition. Period Approximately 1870 Late Edo / early Meiji transition Origin Arita, Hizen, Japan Maker / Mark Hichōzan Fukagawa-sei 肥蝶山 深川製 Material Japanese porcelain Style Imari Dimensions Height: 21 cm Condition Excellent antique condition. The vase is completely free from cracks, hairlines, chips, breaks or restoration. There is no discoloration of the porcelain. The painted decoration and gilding are exceptionally well preserved for a piece of this age. Collector’s note A substantial and highly decorative example of early Fukagawa porcelain, particularly appealing to collectors of Japanese Imari, Arita porcelain and early Fukagawa/Hichōzan wares. The combination of the format, elaborate hand-painted decoration, extensive gilding, distinctive Hichōzan Fukagawa mark and exceptional condition makes this an especially attractive collector’s piece