Japanese Porcelain Vase with Relief Surface Makuzu Kozan

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A rare porcelain vase by Makuzu Kozan (1842-1916) circa 1870-81 (late Meiji period). The vase is dated to the earlier … Read more A rare porcelain vase by Makuzu Kozan (1842-1916) circa 1870-81 (late Meiji period). The vase is dated to the earlier work from Kozan's studio during his early period (Takauki-ware period, 1876-1881), when surface relief sculpturing was used as a distinguished technique. Not a large quantity of the examples remained.
The vase features a classic form of a storage jar with short neck and wide round mouth and raised shoulder. The entire surface was decorated with fine horizontal lines of ring, upon which enamel paintings of magpie birds in flight and swaying autumn grasses. The low relief sculpturing depicts a scrolling grape vines with leaves and clusters of grapes, all rendered in a highly realistic manner with colors. Together, it forms a lovely autumn scenery. The vase is marked with a branded gourd seal "Makuzu Kozan" underneath.
For a similar takauki vase with grape decoration, see Retrospective Makuzu Kozan Miyagawa Collection Book: page 131. See less