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Pair of early 20th-century Satsuma Japanese vases – polychrome and gilt decoration with figures – workshop signature – 31 cm
€799
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About this seller
Private sellerLyon, FranceOn Whoppah since December 2025 • 2 sales
Product description
A superb pair of Satsuma-style Japanese ceramic vases, likely dating from the early 20th century, hand-decorated in the tradition of Japanese export workshops.
Each vase features a rich polychrome and gilt decoration depicting figures inspired by traditional Japanese characters (such as rakan/dignitaries), surrounded by finely crafted geometric and floral motifs. The whole is enhanced with burnished gold gilding that creates subtle reflections depending on the light.
The characteristic crackled background and the low-relief work (raised glazes and pointillism) attest to high-quality craftsmanship.
The bases bear a Japanese workshop signature in the form of a cartouche, typical of Satsuma productions intended for export at the end of the Meiji era or the beginning of the Taishō era. Depending on the angle of the light, this signature can appear dark when viewed from the front and reveal golden reflections in raking light, a characteristic of the use of burnished gold in traditional decoration.
Traditional symbolic motifs, including a stylized mon, are also present, enhancing the overall decorative richness.
Dimensions:
Height 31 cm
Width 18 cm
Weight approximately 1.6 kg per vase
Very good overall condition.
No chips or cracks to report, which is relatively rare for this type of antique ceramic.
Slight signs of use and minor wear to the gilding are consistent with age.
As each piece is entirely hand-decorated, slight variations may be observed, contributing to their authenticity.
Ideal for elegant interior decoration, a Japanese or Asian ambiance, a collection of antique ceramics, or displayed as a pair on a console table or other piece of furniture.
A refined decorative pair perfectly illustrating the work of early 20th-century Japanese export workshops, combining fine execution and strong visual presence.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsGold, Multi ColorMaterialCeramicNumber of items1OrientationPortraitArt sizeSmallHeight31 cmWidth18 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerLyon, FranceOn Whoppah since December 2025 • 2 sales