Large Meiji Period Imari Porcelain Garden Landscape Vase, Attributed to Fukagawa

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Large Meiji Period Imari Porcelain Garden Landscape Vase, Attributed to Fukagawa, Japan

A beautifully painted Meiji period Imari porcelain vase, … Read more Large Meiji Period Imari Porcelain Garden Landscape Vase, Attributed to Fukagawa, Japan

A beautifully painted Meiji period Imari porcelain vase, attributed to Fukagawa, Japan, circa 1880–1900. Standing an impressive 17.5 inches high, this substantial baluster-form vase showcases the refined artistry that distinguished Japan's finest export porcelains during the late nineteenth century.

The decoration is arranged within large cartouches framed by richly painted cobalt blue grounds embellished with scrolling floral arabesques and stylized chrysanthemum medallions. One principal reserve depicts a tranquil Japanese garden with a graceful weeping flowering tree, blooming irises, a winding path, and an elegant roofed garden lantern or pavilion. Such imagery celebrates harmony with nature and reflects the carefully composed landscapes found in traditional Japanese stroll gardens.

The reverse reserve features an elaborate stylized Hō-ō (Japanese phoenix) rising from flowering foliage beneath an ornamental canopy. In Japanese symbolism, the phoenix represents peace, prosperity, renewal, and imperial virtue, while the surrounding floral motifs convey wishes for longevity, happiness, and enduring good fortune.

Executed in the classic Imari palette of deep cobalt blue, iron red, emerald green, black enamel, and restrained gilding, the painting displays exceptional balance between richly ornamented borders and spacious white porcelain reserves. This sophisticated composition is characteristic of higher-quality Meiji production and reflects the influence of workshops such as Fukagawa, whose wares became internationally admired for their refined decoration and technical excellence.

Both an important decorative object and a fine example of late nineteenth-century Japanese porcelain, this impressive vase serves equally well as a floor vase or statement cabinet piece, bringing timeless elegance and vibrant color to traditional and contemporary interiors alike.

Dimensions:
Height: 17.5 in.
Diameter: 9 in.
Top Opening: 7.75 in.
Base Diameter: 6 in. See less