Twelve inches tall, flat-sided, with geishas playing musical instruments on both sides, oriental florals throughout, hand painted moriage in abundance, and two heavy gold scroll-work handles in the form of foo dogs — this is Royal Satsuma export ware at its most accomplished. The matte finish and intentional Satsuma crazing across the entire surface are classic markers of the tradition. Marked "Hand Painted Royal Satsuma" on the base. Pristine condition, no issues of any kind.
A note on Satsuma: original Satsuma pottery dates to the 16th century and is among the most prized in Japanese ceramics. The "Royal Satsuma" mark was used for 20th-century export pieces made for Western markets — not antique Satsuma, but in the same aesthetic tradition and now highly sought after by Western collectors in their own right.
A magnificent piece for a chinoiserie or Asian-inspired interior, a Royal Satsuma collector, or anyone looking for a large-format Japanese vase with genuine presence and extraordinary decoration.
Maker: Royal Satsuma, Made in Japan (marked "Hand Painted Royal Satsuma")
Era: 1960s–1970s (estimated)
Material: Ceramic/earthenware, hand painted moriage, gold gilding, intentional Satsuma crazing
Dimensions: 12.0" tall × 5.0" diameter (widest) × 4.0" top × 4.0" base
Condition: Excellent vintage. Pristine — no chips, scratches, or issues. All sales final.
