Description From our Japanese Satsuma collection, we are pleased to present this elegant miniature bottle vase by Matsumoto Hozan. Delicately formed in earthenware and finished with a fine white crackle glaze, the vase features a distinctive long neck that rises gracefully from a broad, rounded base. The body is richly decorated with a continuous hand painted scene depicting koi carp swimming amongst reeds and rocks, set against stylised waves. Overhead, a delicate butterfly drifts between trailing wisteria and autumn foliage. The scene is alive with movement, celebrating both land and water in harmony. Framing the base is a black ground band with scrolling gilt decoration, adding a refined finish to the composition. The vase is signed to the underside within a gilt reserve with a four character mark reading Matsumoto Hozan 松本宝山. A fine example from the late Meiji period, the vase dates to the late 19th century and reflects the precision and decorative style typical of Kyoto Satsuma ware. MORE ABOUT THE MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912) The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art. For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation. WHAT IS SATSUMA WARE? Satsuma ware originated in southern Kyushu around 1600 and developed into one of Japan’s most recognisable ceramics. Early Ko-Satsuma pieces were rustic, dark-clay wares made for everyday use, while the later Kyo-Satsuma style became famous worldwide during the Meiji period. Characterised by ivory crackled glaze, delicate overglaze enamels, and lavish gilding, export Satsuma appealed strongly to Western collectors. Designs often feature landscapes, flowers, figures, and scenes from Japanese life and mythology. Renowned artists such as Yabu Meizan, Ryozan, and the Kinkozan workshop produced some of the finest examples, which remain highly sought after today. Genuine Satsuma can often be identified by the Shimazu crest, artist signatures, or the mark “Dai Nippon” used during the Meiji era. For further information on the history of Satsuma Wear please see our article Japanese Satsuma Ware. ABOUT THE RETAILER YASUDA COMPANY was founded in 1896 by Gensei and Yoshizaburo Yasida two brothers from Kyoto. The companies full name is Yasuda Kyoto Tojiki Goshikaisha which translates to Yoshida Kyoto Ceramic Joint Stock Company. They were a manufacturer and dealership based in Kyoto and active during the second half of the Japanese Meiji-era specialising in decorative works including Cloisonne and Ceramics, today they are best-known for their Satsuma pottery wares. The company gained a good reputation and great respect for their high quality works which were executed by some of the best artists of their time. As well as Okamoto Ryozan, they worked with celebrated artists such as Sozan, Kizan, Hozan and Seikozan. For further information see our makers and retailers page Yasuda Company (Yasuda Kyoto Tojiki Goshikaisha). ABOUT THE FLOWER WISTERIA Wisteria, known in Japan as fuji (藤), has been admired for centuries as a symbol of elegance, longevity and nobility. During the Heian period (794-1185), the colour purple, which is closely associated with wisteria, was reserved for members of the imperial court and aristocracy. Wisteria also has practical and cultural importance through textile known as fuji-fu, made from the plant’s vines. It is one of the oldest fabrics in Japan and was designated a tangible cultural property in 1991. Since the Edo period, wisteria has been cultivated on trellises to create its distinctive flowering canopy, a tradition still seen in gardens today. It was also used historically in traditional medicine, adding to its layered cultural meaning. For further information on Wisteria and its long history in Japan see our article Wisteria in Japanese Art and Culture. MEASUREMENTS 13cm High x 7.5cm Diameter (5.12 x 2.95 Inches) CONDITION Excellent Condition WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. 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