Rare Satsuma Soliflore Vase with dragons and Phoenix from the Meiji Period (1868-1912)

A beautiful and rare quadrangular earthenware soliflore vase with polychrome enamel and gold rakan decoration, decorated on the sides with dragons and phoenixes in particularly vivid colors in a frame of flowers and arabesques. Satsuma mark on underside. The workmanship and exceptional quality of this vase distinguish it from the classic Satsuma products destined for the export market during the Meiji era, and found today on the European market.

Satsuma earthenware was born in 1598 under the influence of Shimazu Yoshihiro, a great Japanese lord whose intention was to establish a local pottery industry on the Satsuma territory. For over four hundred years, the potters of Satsuma developed original earthenware techniques, making it one of the leading references in Japanese ceramics. This type of ceramics is characterized by the diversity of shapes of vases, bowls, lighting fixtures and various decorative objects, which evolve according to the period and kiln used. For many, Satsuma ceramics evoke white-paste pieces with polychrome decorations enhanced by gilding; in fact, this was the most famous and sought-after style in Western countries at the end of the 19th century. It is known as "Golden Brocade Satsuma", due to the richness of its ornamentation and the systematic use of the color gold. The decoration, worked down to the smallest detail, can be very busy, thanks in particular to the use of large quantities of gold. Geometric and abstract forms are combined with realistic illustrations such as flowers and birds. The human figure is also widely used, in a style reminiscent of prints. The consecration of Satsuma earthenware began when it was exported to Western countries. It was in the 19th century that Satsuma porcelain was introduced to the West, notably through the Universal Exhibitions. Today, Satsuma ceramics are still produced by a large number of techniques and potters based in Kagoshima prefecture. More than 200 potters' workshops remain faithful to the quality and technique that have made Satsuma one of the greatest references in Japanese ceramics.

Circa: 1880

Dim: L: 7cm, P: 7cm, H: 21cm
Dim: W: 2,8in, D: 2,8in, H: 8,3in

Condition report: In good condition with caligraphic box