Description This Japanese Satsuma brush pot by Kanzan is a finely painted example of Meiji period Satsuma ware, produced in Kyoto during the late nineteenth century. Combining detailed figural scenes with traditional symbolic decoration, it reflects the technical precision and narrative style that made Japanese Satsuma ceramics highly sought after by both domestic and export markets. Expertly potted in earthenware, the brush pot is raised upon three stylised tripod feet decorated with scrolling vines, leading to a cylindrical body finished with a rolled top rim. The surface is arranged in two horizontal registers separated by black and gilt key pattern borders, a design feature closely associated with Kyoto studio production. The principal band presents a sequence of shaped cartouches painted with exceptional control and clarity. One scene depicts a spirited shishi-mai lion dance performed by boys in patterned robes beneath a vivid red lion mask. Traditionally staged during festivals and New Year celebrations, the lion dance was believed to drive away misfortune and invite prosperity, making it a subject frequently associated with positive symbolism. Opposing this is an interior gathering of bijin seated on tatami flooring, engaged in cultured leisure pursuits. Musical performance, conversation, and the preparation of tea unfold within the composition, while open shoji screens reveal a distant mountainous landscape. Scenes of this nature reflect the refined domestic ideals often celebrated in Meiji period decorative arts. Between the figural reserves are carefully painted still life motifs drawn from auspicious household imagery. These include a floral arrangement in a bamboo vase positioned before a pair of golden shears, a purple lacquered box resting on draped silk, a double gourd flask, and seasonal blooms of camellia and morning glory. Such objects conveyed themes of prosperity, preparation, and harmony within the home. Encircling the lower body is a continuous band of butterflies moving through stylised clouds, executed in polychrome enamels with generous gilding. In Japanese decorative tradition, butterflies symbolise joy, renewal, and marital happiness, reinforcing the positive visual language present throughout the piece. The underside is signed within a rectangular reserve Kanzan (桓山), identifying a recognised Kyoto artist working during the Meiji period and associated with the influential Yasuda Company. Brush pots of this quality were both functional and decorative, intended for the scholar’s desk while also demonstrating artistic refinement. Sourced from a UK private collection, this Japanese Satsuma brush pot by Kanzan represents a confident example of Meiji ceramic workmanship and remains highly relevant to collectors of Japanese art seeking pieces with strong surface decoration and clear studio attribution. Provenance Private UK collection Learn about shishi-mai (獅子舞) Shishi-mai (獅子舞), or Lion Dance, is a traditional Japanese performance believed to have arrived from China via Korea during the Asuka period. Performed during the New Year and other festive occasions, the dance is intended to bring good fortune and drive away evil spirits. It typically features a lacquered lion head (shishi-gashira) with a green cloth body, animated by one or more performers, and accompanied by drums and flutes. Variations exist across Japan, with over 9,000 regional styles recorded. In some forms, the lion “bites” participants for luck. Shishi-mai also appears in classical theatre, including Noh, Kabuki, and Shinto ritual dances such as kagura. Learn about the maker KANZAN (桓山) Kanzan was an accomplished Satsuma artist active in Kyoto during the Meiji period. Working both as an individual and under the Yasuda company and likely within the atelier of Okamoto Ryozan, Kanzan produced finely painted export wares known for detailed figural scenes, lavish gilding, and strong traditional themes. For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on Kanzan. LEARN 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 Ware please see our article Japanese Satsuma Ware. MEASUREMENTS 12.5cm High x 6.5cm Diameter (4.9 x 2.5 Inches) CONDITION Excellent Antique 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. 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