Details
Description
Meiji Satsuma Cup and Saucer by Kitagawa-zō with Dragons and Immortals, Signed Dai Nippon
An extraordinary Meiji-period Satsuma porcelain cup …
Read more
Meiji Satsuma Cup and Saucer by Kitagawa-zō with Dragons and Immortals, Signed Dai Nippon
An extraordinary Meiji-period Satsuma porcelain cup and saucer, attributed to the distinguished Japanese workshop Kitagawa-zō, and bearing the gilt signature “Dai Nippon Kitagawa-zō” (大日本 北川造) on both the cup and saucer. This finely enameled and gilded pair reflects the height of Satsuma export ware production during the late 19th to early 20th century (circa 1890–1910), crafted expressly for Western collectors drawn to Japanese symbolism and decorative virtuosity.
The fluted saucer and matching cup are exuberantly hand-painted with polychrome and raised gilt decoration in extraordinary detail. Each surface depicts an animated congregation of Rakan (Arhats)—enlightened disciples of the Buddha—rendered with remarkable individual expression and draped in patterned robes. Two undulating dragons, executed in sculptural high relief and highlighted in gilded scales with red and black enamel accents, encircle the group in a dynamic composition that evokes both spiritual protection and celestial power.
The saucer’s reverse and the base of the cup are both marked in gilt with the elaborate Kitagawa seal flanked by dragons, surrounded by additional heraldic motifs and characters denoting “Great Japan,” consistent with high-grade Meiji-period export Satsuma.
This meticulously painted set exemplifies the pinnacle of technical and symbolic detail in Satsuma ware. The saucer measures 5.25" in diameter; together the cup and saucer stand 2.75" high. An exceptional collector’s piece that bridges Buddhist iconography, mythological symbolism, and Japanese ceramic excellence.
Satsuma cup and saucer Together 2.75" h saucer 5.25 dia
Cup alone: 4" wide to handle / 3" diameter of cup x 2.5" h
Saucer alone: 5.25 dia x .5" high
See less
- Dimensions
- 5.25ʺW × 5.25ʺD × 2.75ʺH
- Styles
- Japanese
- Period
- Late 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- Japan
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Enamel
- Pottery
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Gold
- Condition Notes
- Good Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Good Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. less
Questions about the item?
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Related Collections
- Bitossi Mugs and Cups
- Aldo Londi Mugs and Cups
- Indian Mugs and Cups
- Mugs and Cups in Reno/Lake Tahoe
- Realism Mugs and Cups
- Mario Bellini Mugs and Cups
- Silver Mugs and Cups
- Japanese Mugs and Cups
- Mid-Century Modern Mugs and Cups
- Otagiri Company Mugs and Cups
- Metal Mugs and Cups
- Stirrup Cups
- Dark Green Mugs and Cups
- Richard Ginori Mugs and Cups
- Mugs and Cups in Louisville
- Memphis Mugs and Cups
- Gemstone Mugs and Cups
- Federal Glass Mugs and Cups
- Burgundy Mugs and Cups
- Mugs and Cups in Indianapolis