A small tripod vase decorated with polychrome enamels and gold in Satsuma faience . The rim is polylobed and outlined in gold. The decoration consists of haloed figures in cartouches against dotted backgrounds. These are the 18 Luohans or Arhats, figures from Buddhist mythology. The background is covered with decorative motifs reminiscent of paper cutouts. On the neck are motifs of crosses inscribed within circles. Through the rim, one can see the crackled, off-white enamel background characteristic of Satsuma from the Meiji period (1868-1912).
This is a very refined Japanese production. The 18 Luohans, or Arhats, are, according to Buddhist mythology, the original followers of Gautama Buddha. They are said to have attained the four stages of enlightenment leading to Nirvana. Their role is to protect the Buddhist faith and await the coming of Maitreya, the enlightening Buddha. They are a symbol of Mahayana Buddhism, which advocates helping others reach Nirvana rather than seeking it only for oneself. They are often depicted with European features (high nose, thick eyebrows, round eyes, etc.) based on the description given by the monk Guanxiu in 891.
Condition report : In very good condition.
Delivery
Europe: €0
US/Canada/HK: €0
Rest of the world: Price upon request
- Reference :
- 3011
- Availability :
- Item available
- Width :
- 10 (cm)
- Height :
- 15 (cm)
- Depth :
- 10 (cm)
- Era:
- 19th century
- Style:
- Japanese, Satsuma
- Materials:
- Enamel, Gold, Satsuma Faience
