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Satsuma Vase with Monks
Satsuma Vase with Monks
Satsuma Vase with Monks
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Satsuma Vase with Monks

  • This vase is exquisitely hand-painted with intricate details of Buddhist monks
  • The perspective in the decoration dates this vase to the earlier Meiji period, enhancing its rarity
  • It is marked with the Shimazu family crest and "Satsuma," confirming its prestigious heritage
  • Satsuma pottery has captivated collectors for nearly 150 years
  • Get complete item description here
$1,985
Item No. 31-9105

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Description
This Japanese Satsuma vase epitomizes the pinnacle of Japanese earthenware craftsmanship. Exquisitely hand-painted, it features a gathering of Buddhist monks adorned with gilded halos, which in Buddhist iconography signify enlightenment, divinity and spiritual importance. The vase is particularly impressive due to its small size, as the artist masterfully captures intricate details within the scene. Later scenes on Satsuma vessels often incorporate foreshortening to add depth, reflecting Western influence. The absence of foreshortening in this scene. . .
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This Japanese Satsuma vase epitomizes the pinnacle of Japanese earthenware craftsmanship. Exquisitely hand-painted, it features a gathering of Buddhist monks adorned with gilded halos, which in Buddhist iconography signify enlightenment, divinity and spiritual importance. The vase is particularly impressive due to its small size, as the artist masterfully captures intricate details within the scene. Later scenes on Satsuma vessels often incorporate foreshortening to add depth, reflecting Western influence. The absence of foreshortening in this scene indicates its creation in the earlier Meiji period.

Legend holds that the finest Satsuma painters would go blind due to the extreme intricacy of their work, a testament to the meticulous detail exhibited in this pottery. The mark on the underside is typical of a Satsuma ware signature. The top circular symbol is the cross-in-circle Shimazu family crest, or mon, indicating this vase’s origin in the Satsuma Province. Below the crest are kanji characters for “Satsuma.”

Satsuma earthenware, a quintessential art form of the Meiji period, has captivated collectors for just over 150 years. First crafted in the 17th century, its distinctive style—featuring overglaze enamel and gilded detailing—was perfected around 1790. Early designs focused on nature, particularly floral and animal motifs, with architectural and human elements emerging in the 19th century.

Originating near Kagoshima Prefecture on Kyushu Island, Satsuma ware was initially created by Korean potters for the Shimazu family and local residents. Its popularity soared after being showcased at the 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris. This exposure led to increased demand from the West, prompting production expansion to major Japanese cities like Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo and Yokohama. The continued patronage of the Shimazu family further cemented Satsuma ware's success and global appeal.

Marked "Satsuma" with the Shimazu family crest

Meiji period (1868-1912)

3 3/4" high x 1 1/2" diameter
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Satsuma Vase with Monks
Period: 19th Century
Origin: Asia
Type: Vases/Vessels
Depth: 1.5 in. (3.81 cm)
Width: 1.5 in. (3.81 cm)
Height: 3.75 in. (9.53 cm)
Satsuma Vase with Monks
Unveil the History of the Vase

Vases are some of the oldest and most widespread decorative objects, and their history shows us that they can be far more than a container for a beautiful floral bouquet. These rare antiques...

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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

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