Description
This Japanese Satsuma vase by Ryokuzan is decorated with a continuous figural landscape scene set against a finely crackled ivory ground with gilt and polychrome decoration and dates to the Meiji Period (1868–1912), circa 1910.
The vase is of ovoid form with a pinched neck and base and is bordered with geometric bands and floral ornament in gilt and polychrome enamels. The main body depicts a continuous scene with bijin in traditional dress holding fans, accompanied by further figures and children arranged within a landscape of flowering plants and distant mountains. The figures are rendered with fine detail and controlled brushwork, creating a balanced narrative scene across the surface.
The upper shoulder is decorated with a dense band of stylised floral motifs, while the lower section is framed with geometric and gilt borders, giving structure to the overall composition. The use of layered decoration and continuous figural painting reflects Satsuma ware produced in Kyoto during the late Meiji period for the export market.
The base is signed in gilt on a red reserve Ryokuzan 緑山 and bears the Shimazu clan mon, a circle with a cross, associated with Satsuma ware.
View the full Japanese Satsuma Collection.
MEASUREMENTS
15.25cm High x 8.5cm (6 x 3.35 Inches)
CONDITION
Very Good
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.
WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE?
At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide.
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With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee.
We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production.
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