Art Deco Moriage and Glazed Ceramics Vase, Japan, 1910s

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This ceramic vase is an absolutely breathtaking and highly decorative showcase of Far Eastern artistry from the early 20th century. … Read more This ceramic vase is an absolutely breathtaking and highly decorative showcase of Far Eastern artistry from the early 20th century. Originating from Japan, it stands as a prime and definitive exemplar of the globally revered Satsuma pottery. The primary artistic focus on the front features meticulously rendered human figures; notably, one figure holds a traditional folding fan, an iconographical attribute that historically signifies a high-ranking military commander or a person of noble stature. The back of the vase and its elegant neck counter-balance this dramatic scene with soft, traditional floral motifs set against a backdrop of dense, miniature stippling and delicate linework. The vase masterfully combines intricate hand-painting with the sophisticated moriage technique—a raised, tactile relief decoration created by painstakingly layering enamel, beautifully visible on the figures' ornate garments and gilded elements. The overall imperial aesthetic is heightened by rich gilding and a dramatic, widely flaring lobed rim that beautifully mimics the shape of a blooming flower. When viewed from above or below, the vase reveals its authentic ivory-cream earthenware base covered in a distinct, fine crackle glaze (a web of microscopic fractures), which serves as the definitive hallmark of genuine Satsuma ware. This ceramic piece remains in its original, beautifully preserved condition, making it an outstanding find for discerning collectors of Asian art. The hand-painted pigments and gold accents have retained their vivid brightness, and the fragile raised enamel detailing remains remarkably intact with minimal signs of age-related wear. This vase will effortlessly function as a commanding, high-end highlight in classic drawing rooms, minimalist spaces, or eclectic oriental-themed interiors. See less