Fine Japanese Satsuma Ceramic Jar with Gilt Decoration by Kinkozan

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A large Japanese ceramic vase from end of Meiji period circa 1880s- 1910s by Kinkozan (1645-1927). One of the largest … Read more A large Japanese ceramic vase from end of Meiji period circa 1880s- 1910s by Kinkozan (1645-1927). One of the largest studio manufacturers of the export ceramics at the time based in Kyoto. In the typical style of satsuma made at the turn of 20th century, the vase is of a moon jar shape and finely decorated with kinran-de (gold paint) on a cream white background with even fine crackles. What sets this particular vase apart from many lower quality and mass-produced pieces is the meticulously renditioned surface decoration. Lavishly gilded with a continuous design, the carefully composed imagery depicts an elaborately decorated float cart in a festival parade. A group of people are seated within the float with a woman and a child standing in the front. Surrounding the float are streams of marchers dressed in ceremonial outfits, each with distinct pattern, as well as pedestrians going about their own business and bystanders. The parade depicted here is likely the Gion Matsuri Festival, which takes place annually in Kyoto from July 17th to 24th. It is known for the Yamanbako Junko with lavished decorated floats. Interestingly, the float here carries a Migi Mitsu Tomoe Mon which was used to identify specific sponsors of families or shrines. The mouth and base are decorated with gold bands of floral designs and archaic key pattern. Signed "Made by Kinkozan" underneath in a red seal and Nippon.  
The composition is well-balanced with motion and dimensional depth in mind, very much a snapshot of the moment. The painting was finely executed with no details overlooked. As a large piece, the superb workmanship can be compared to the miniature work from the studio and those by Yabu Meizan and Seikozan.
Come with vase is a page of an auction catalog. It appears that the vase was purchased in 1982 from Gallery Sixtyeight which is no longer in business. See less