Meiji Period Kutani Porcelain Large Vase Late 19th Century red ground with rich gold decoration of flowers, birds and people within reserves.
The Meiji Period Kutani Porcelain Large Vase is an outstanding example of Japanese art, reflecting the rich ceramic tradition of Kutani, developed in the 17th century in the town of the same name. This vase, dating from the late 1800s, is distinguished by its vibrant red background and elaborate gold decoration, featuring a lot of flowers, birds and scenes of everyday life.
The main scene depicts two ladies in a playful moment, while another female figure shows a drawing to a seated child, catching the eye for its liveliness and artistry. The complexity of the decoration is such that it is difficult to describe it completely, highlighting the craftsmanship of the artisans of the time.
The vase has a cap decorated with a Pho dog standing on a rock, a symbol of protection and good luck. Importantly, there are some restorations on the rim of the stopper, as well as small felures, signs of its past that add character and history to the object.
The vase is placed on a finely carved and red lacquered Oriental wooden pedestal, which further enhances its beauty and preciousness. The overall dimensions of the object are significant: the pedestal measures 76.5 cm in height, with a base measuring 41 x 41 cm, while the vase is 61 cm high and has a diameter of 47 cm. The stopper, 31.5 cm high and with a diameter of 28.5 cm, completes the ensemble.
Finally, the vase is signed with a gold ideogram on a red background, visible at the bottom, testifying to the authenticity and value of the work. The Meiji period, from 1868 to 1912, is known for its profound cultural and artistic transformations in Japan, making this vase not only a decorative object, but also a piece of history.