Pair of Meiji Period Japanese Kutani Porcelain "100 Poems" Vases, Now as Lamps

Details

Description

Pair of Meiji Period Japanese Kutani Porcelain "100 Poems" Vases, Now as Lamps, Japan, circa 1890

A striking pair of … Read more Pair of Meiji Period Japanese Kutani Porcelain "100 Poems" Vases, Now as Lamps, Japan, circa 1890

A striking pair of Meiji period Kutani porcelain vases, now expertly converted into lamps, each finely hand-painted with a dense and colorful scene from the revered Ogura Hyakunin Isshu (“One Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets”). These cylindrical vases, standing 20 inches high to the socket and 16 inches to the top of the porcelain body, display an extraordinary level of craftsmanship and narrative detail characteristic of late 19th-century Japanese porcelain artistry.

The vases are decorated in vivid enamel colors with intricate figural tableaux, depicting aristocratic poets gathered in formal court attire—each group surrounded by folding screens and decorative panels bearing poetic calligraphy. Above the scenes, black script against a white background reproduces stylized versions of classical waka poetry from the anthology. The writing is rendered in delicate and expressive brushstrokes, referencing the graceful flow of Heian-era kana calligraphy.

The Hyakunin Isshu is a cornerstone of Japanese literary and visual culture. Compiled in the early 13th century by the nobleman and poet Fujiwara no Teika, the collection features 100 waka poems, each penned by a different poet from Japan’s classical age. The anthology has long been a subject for visual interpretation—particularly during the Edo and Meiji periods—appearing on scrolls, ceramics, and lacquerware as a celebration of refinement, nostalgia, and national heritage.

One of the most iconic poems frequently depicted in Kutani ware, and likely referenced in these vases, is the first in the anthology by Emperor Tenji (7th century):

In the autumn fields,
In a thatched hut I lie,
My sleeves wet with dew
That falls through the reed roof—
The chill of night lingers still.

This poetic sentiment, evoking impermanence, nature, and nobility in restraint, is echoed in the visual stillness and reverent expressions of the figures adorning each vase.

The vases are mounted on ebonized wood bases and fitted with dual lamp hardware. They retain their integrity as decorative art objects while functioning beautifully as lighting. No visible cracks or repairs to the porcelain; some minor surface wear consistent with age and careful use. Wiring is in working condition but can be rewired upon request.

These pieces are ideal for collectors of Japanese art, connoisseurs of literary-themed décor, or interior designers seeking unique, historically significant statement lighting. Their rare combination of poetic symbolism, technical mastery, and functionality makes them as intellectually enriching as they are visually compelling.

Dimensions:
Height to socket: 20 in.
Height of porcelain: 16 in.
Diameter: 7 in.

Shades not included. See less