Late 19th Century Pair of Japanese Meiji Period Black-Ground Satsuma Footed Dresser Boxes, Signed

Details

Description

An exquisite pair of late Meiji period (c. 1890–1912) Japanese Satsuma circular footed dresser or trinket boxes (kōgō). Constructed of … Read more An exquisite pair of late Meiji period (c. 1890–1912) Japanese Satsuma circular footed dresser or trinket boxes (kōgō). Constructed of fine ivory-tinted earthenware, each piece features a striking and highly collectible matte charcoal-black enamel ground—a dramatic backdrop for the delicate polychrome floral motifs on the lids.
​The lidded covers are meticulously hand-painted with lush, multi-petaled peonies and roses rendered in soft overglaze enamels of mint green, pale cream, blush pink, and terracotta. Elegant hand-gilded branches, leaves, and budding stems weave around the florals, adding texture and shimmer. Encircling the collar of each lid and base is a refined, geometric Greek key/fretwork border in bright gold gilt.
Each box rests elevated on three gracefully swept tripod peg feet with gold wash accents. On the underside, the unglazed base reveals the characteristic fine crackle glaze of authentic Satsuma pottery, marked with a hand-painted vertical iron-red cartouche bearing gold studio kanji calligraphy.
A striking, visually balanced matched pair—perfect for a vanity, dressing table, or curio cabinet display.

Details & Attributes
Place of Origin: Japan
Period: Late 19th / Early 20th Century (Meiji Period, c. 1890–1912)
Materials & Techniques: Earthenware, Crackle Glaze, Matte Enamel, Overglaze Polychrome, Hand-Gilded Gold
Condition: Good Antique Condition. Shows light, age-appropriate wear and minor rubbing to the gilding on the feet and rims, consistent with age and careful handling. Free of major chips, cracks, or restorations.
Markings: Signed on the underside with a hand-painted studio cartouche.
Dimensions
Height: 2.5 in. (6.35 cm)
Width: 4.0 in. (10.16 cm)
Depth: 4.0 in. (10.16 cm)
Quantity: Sold as a matched pair of two (2). See less