Large Meiji Arita Porcelain and Textured Lacquer Vase

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This awe-inspiring 60 cm Japanese vase from the Meiji era is a remarkable testament to the exclusivity and complexity of … Read more This awe-inspiring 60 cm Japanese vase from the Meiji era is a remarkable testament to the exclusivity and complexity of 19th-century export art. Weighing 5910 grams and measuring 27 cm in diameter, the piece features a highly unusual dual-layered construction. The foundation is a top-tier Arita porcelain vase created by the Yamaka studio, bearing the base mark 肥前有田 山嘉造 (Hizen Arita, Yamaka zō). Unlike most large-scale ceramics and common analogies, the exposed porcelain panels exhibit an unbelievably refined level of enamel painting, completely atypical for monumental wares, and proudly bear the signature of the master enameller 友前 (Tomomae). This exquisite porcelain is partially encased in a thick, textured lacquer shell that perfectly frames the painted cartouches. The piece remains in superb antique condition with no visible breakages, merely displaying the original, natural seam connecting the porcelain substrate to the intricate lacquer coating. See less