Large Meiji Japanese Gilt Porcelain Samurai Vase with Stand, 1880

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A large and exceptionally decorative Japanese porcelain vase dating to the Meiji period, circa 1880, richly hand-painted with figural scenes, … Read more A large and exceptionally decorative Japanese porcelain vase dating to the Meiji period, circa 1880, richly hand-painted with figural scenes, landscapes, butterflies, chrysanthemums and extensive gilt ornament, and presented on its original-style carved hardwood stand. Of imposing baluster form, the vase is dominated by large opposing cartouches depicting finely detailed scenes from Japanese life. One principal reserve portrays elegantly dressed women gathered within a garden landscape, while the opposing composition features samurai warriors rendered in traditional armour and costume. Smaller reserves distributed around the body contain additional figures and landscape details, creating an unusually complex narrative scheme. The surrounding porcelain is lavishly decorated with dense gilt patterns, stylised chrysanthemums, scrolling foliage and geometric borders against iron-red, cream and gold grounds. Particularly attractive is the broad shoulder and neck, where butterflies and floral motifs are interspersed amongst intricate scrolling ornament. The elaborate decoration continues around the entire circumference of the vase, allowing it to be displayed successfully from multiple viewpoints. Extensive hand-applied gilding gives the surface an almost textile-like richness, contrasting beautifully with the more delicately painted figural reserves. The underside bears a six-character iron-red Japanese mark. The decoration and mark have been associated with late 19th-century Japanese export porcelain of the type produced by workshops including Hichozan Shinpo and related Arita-area makers. The vase is therefore best described conservatively as Japanese Meiji-period porcelain rather than definitively attributing it to a particular workshop. The vase is accompanied by a substantial carved and pierced hardwood stand, approximately 7 inches in diameter, which raises the overall presentation to an impressive 18 inches. A particularly striking example of Meiji-period Japanese decorative porcelain, combining monumental scale, extensive gilding and intricately painted narrative scenes. Its rich surface decoration and substantial proportions make it an impressive statement piece for an Asian art collection or decorative interior. Date: Circa 1880 Period: Meiji Period, 1868-1912 Origin: Japan Style: Japanese Meiji / Export Porcelain Material: Hand-painted and gilt porcelain, carved hardwood stand Markings: Six-character iron-red Japanese mark to underside Condition: Excellent antique condition with no noted chips. Minor age-related wear and small areas of gilding loss are present, consistent with age. Hardwood stand shows expected antique wear. Measurements: Height including stand: 18 in. (45.7 cm) Vase Height: approximately 15 in. (38.1 cm) Width / Diameter: approximately 7.5 in. (19.1 cm) Depth: approximately 7.5 in. (19.1 cm) Mouth Diameter: approximately 4.25 in. (10.8 cm) Base Diameter: approximately 5 in. (12.7 cm) Stand: 7 in. diameter × 3.5 in. high (17.8 × 8.9 cm) See less