Exceptional Monumental Meiji Period Kyoto Satsuma Bowl, Attrib. Kinkozan Studio

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Exceptional Monumental Meiji Period Kyoto Satsuma Bowl with Original Carved Hardwood Stand, Attributed to the Kinkozan Studio, Two Pieces, Satsuma … Read more Exceptional Monumental Meiji Period Kyoto Satsuma Bowl with Original Carved Hardwood Stand, Attributed to the Kinkozan Studio, Two Pieces, Satsuma Bowl & Carved Hardwood Stand

An exceptional and unusually large Japanese Satsuma earthenware bowl with its original carved hardwood display stand, attributed to the celebrated Kinkozan Studio of Kyoto and dating to the Meiji period, circa 1890–1910. Measuring an impressive 16 inches in diameter, this monumental example far exceeds the size of most Satsuma bowls produced for export and was intended as a statement object for display in an important interior.

The bowl is masterfully potted with a softly lobed chrysanthemum-form rim and covered in a rich ivory crackle glaze serving as the canvas for an extraordinary hand-painted decorative program executed in finely detailed overglaze enamels and lavish burnished gold. At its center, a pair of majestic Hō-ō (Phoenix) birds perch among flowering branches of cherry and plum blossoms. In Japanese art, the mythical phoenix symbolizes peace, virtue, imperial authority, and the arrival of a prosperous age, while the blossoms celebrate renewal, longevity, and the beauty of the changing seasons.

The surrounding interior is densely ornamented with hundreds of individually painted chrysanthemums, peonies, camellias, and seasonal blossoms interspersed with landscape reserves depicting birds in idyllic settings. Every element was executed by hand using multiple firings, a painstaking process requiring exceptional control of enamel pigments and gold decoration.

The exterior is equally remarkable, featuring an uninterrupted procession of flying cranes drifting through stylized clouds punctuated by richly gilded chrysanthemum roundels. The crane is one of Japan's most revered symbols, representing longevity, fidelity, happiness, and good fortune, while the chrysanthemum remains the enduring emblem of the Imperial Household.

The underside bears a rare gilt rectangular cartouche reading 薩摩 identifying the piece as Satsuma ware. The exceptional scale, sophisticated composition, and museum-quality painting strongly suggest production by one of Kyoto's foremost decorating ateliers. Based on stylistic and technical characteristics, the bowl is confidently attributed to the Kinkozan Studio, one of the most distinguished names in Meiji-period Satsuma ceramics.

Retaining its original carved hardwood stand, this monumental bowl functions equally well as a dramatic centerpiece, charger, or sculptural work of art. Its combination of exceptional size, lavish decoration, and refined craftsmanship places it among the finest examples of late nineteenth-century Japanese export ceramics produced during the golden age of Meiji decorative arts.

Dimensions of the Two-Piece Set
Overall (with carved hardwood stand): 16 in. diameter × 9.75 in. high
Satsuma Bowl: 16 in. diameter × 6 in. high
Original Carved Hardwood Stand: 11.5 in. diameter × 3 in. high See less