Description
This Japanese Satsuma moonflask vase by Kawai dates to the Meiji period, circa 1885, and is formed with an unusual flattened body, gently raised shoulders and a tall cylindrical neck. The vase is richly decorated with finely painted figural reserves, seasonal landscapes and dense gilded brocade work against an intricate ground of scrolling karakusa, geometric diaper patterns and raised moriage enamel.
The principal reserve depicts an outdoor gathering of courtiers and elegantly dressed ladies seated beneath an autumnal Japanese maple tree. Beyond the figures is a landscape of winding water, pine-covered hills and bamboo fencing, creating depth within the composition. Opposite, a second large reserve portrays another group of figures within a similarly peaceful landscape, while additional shaped reserves contain a finely painted riverside scene with thatched cottages and a separate panel of flowering chrysanthemums.
The sloping shoulder is divided into radiating panels decorated with flying red-crowned cranes above a richly gilded lattice ground, while the neck carries two finely painted interior scenes. One depicts two noble ladies kneeling before an open view of maple trees and pines, while the opposing reserve shows a gentleman seated upon tatami attended by a standing lady, with a coastal landscape beyond. The neck and shoulder are enclosed by elaborate geometric borders incorporating shippo-tsunagi motifs, chrysanthemum rosettes and coloured enamels, with further gilded scrollwork continuing across the body.
The vase retains its original ivory-toned Satsuma crackled glaze with extensive hand-applied gilding throughout. The lower section is finished with stylised lappets and geometric borders in iron-red and gold. The raised shoulders, visible as narrow vertical ribs beneath the neck, further distinguish the form from the more commonly encountered moonflasks of the period.
The vase is signed to the underside in black enamel with the artist’s mark Kawai zō (川合造 – “Made by Kawai”), accompanied by the workshop numeral mark 241 (二四一). It is presented in excellent condition. There is a small original firing crack to the top rim, created during manufacture, which should be regarded as a kiln firing characteristic rather than later damage. No chips, cracks or restoration are evident elsewhere.
View the full Japanese Satsuma Collection.
MEASUREMENTS
24.5cm High x 18.5cm Wide x 9.5cm Deep (9.65 x 7.3 x 3.74 Inches)
CONDITION
Excellent antique condition with an original firing line to the lip, no damage, no restoration.
Who was Kawai (川合)?
The mark Kawai zō (川合造) identifies the work of the Kawai workshop, an independent decorating atelier active in Kyoto during the late Meiji period (1868–1912). Operating during the height of Japan’s export trade, the studio acquired ivory glazed Kyō Satsuma earthenware blanks and executed all overglaze enamelling, miniature figural painting, and gilding in house. Kawai is recognised for finely detailed court scenes, raised moriage dotting, and complex geometric brocade borders created for high grade export markets.
WHAT IS THE JAPANESE MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)?
The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art.
For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation.
WHAT IS SATSUMA WARE?
Satsuma ware originated in southern Kyushu around 1600 and developed into one of Japan’s most recognisable ceramics. Early Ko-Satsuma pieces were rustic, dark-clay wares made for everyday use, while the later Kyo-Satsuma style became famous worldwide during the Meiji period.
Characterised by ivory crackled glaze, delicate overglaze enamels, and lavish gilding, export Satsuma appealed strongly to Western collectors. Designs often feature landscapes, flowers, figures, and scenes from Japanese life and mythology. Renowned artists such as Yabu Meizan, Ryozan, and the Kinkozan workshop produced some of the finest examples, which remain highly sought after today. Genuine Satsuma can often be identified by the Shimazu crest, artist signatures, or the mark “Dai Nippon” used during the Meiji era.
For further information on the history of Satsuma Ware please see our article Japanese Satsuma Ware.
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