:Large pairJapanese Satsuma earthenware vases with a crackled glaze and hand-painted figures, by Takichi Hotoda. likely dating to the Meiji period (1868-1912). They depict scenes of warriors, possibly samurai, and are decorated with polychrome enamels and gilding. Key Characteristics The decoration is applied on top of the glaze, creating a slightly raised, softer, and more matte finish (a technique known as moriage in some cases). The scenes feature detailed figures of Samurai in combat. Marked with artist's signature or the Shimazu family crest (a cross within a circle) on the base.