Japanese Satsuma Earthenware Four-Panel Tea Caddy, Ryuzan - Kyoto, Meiji-Taisho

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Japanese Satsuma Earthenware Four-Panel Tea Caddy
Attributed to Ryuzan Studio (龍山), Kyoto, Meiji–Taisho Period, circa 1900–1920

A finely painted Japanese … Read more Japanese Satsuma Earthenware Four-Panel Tea Caddy
Attributed to Ryuzan Studio (龍山), Kyoto, Meiji–Taisho Period, circa 1900–1920

A finely painted Japanese Satsuma earthenware tea caddy of square-shouldered form with four gently rounded vertical panels, surmounted by a snug-fitting circular lid, and signed to the underside with the Ryuzan studio mark (龍山) in gilt on black enamel. Measuring 5 inches high by 3 inches wide, this caddy exemplifies the high artistry of Kyoto Satsuma workshops working in the late Meiji and early Taisho periods, characterized by their meticulous moriage (raised enamel), dense gilding, and lyrical narrative figuration.

Each of the four sides is reserved within an arched gold cartouche and bordered by geometric diaperwork, florals, and brocade-inspired millefleur grounds:

Panel One depicts a serene landscape vignette of two geisha and two children under a blossoming cherry tree, one figure in a red kimono gesturing toward the child in a moment of parental intimacy. The brushwork is delicate, with exceptionally fine facial features and textile patterning rendered in gilt and colored enamels.

Panel Two displays an overflowing basket of chrysanthemums, daisies, and peonies beside a dragonfly, the dense floral composition framed by shimmering gold lattice and stylized floral bursts. The use of stippling and shaded enamel gradation enhances depth and naturalism.

Panel Three presents a literary or courtly scene, with two seated male figures in court robes beneath flying cranes and a pine tree. One figure appears to be reciting or gesturing in dialogue, recalling classical Noh or Genji scenes. The landscape rolls behind them in misted waves of stippled earth tones and delicate gilded clouds.

Panel Four is a lush botanical composition of hanging wisteria vines and irises beside a small stream, evoking a poetic seasonal transition. The rendering is lyrical, with subtle layering of brushstroke and a muted, natural palette.

The shoulders and upper surfaces are enriched with a riot of stylized chrysanthemums and geometrically tessellated floral lozenges, rendered in polychrome enamel and copious fine gilding. The lid is similarly adorned, with concentric patterns of millefleur, spiraling brocade, and a central chrysanthemum medallion.

The base is signed in gilt within a black cartouche as 龍山 (Ryuzan), a known Kyoto-area Satsuma artist or workshop associated with finely painted export wares in the early 20th century. The distinctive style and mark suggest production under the influence or training of the Kinkozan lineage, and the technical execution compares favorably with examples in the collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Khalili Collection of Japanese Art. See less