Description From our Satsuma collection, we are delighted to offer this most unusual form Japanese Satsuma vase by the prolific Seikozan. The vase is of a distinctive three-footed bottle form, raised upon triangular feet with a globular body, slightly waisted shoulder and tapered neck leading to a rolled top rim finished in gilt. The body is densely painted with continuous figural scenes, each featuring groups of boys playing with elders in animated settings, surrounded by various cultural motifs. Each vignette is framed by intricate gilded borders, incorporating fans, geometric forms and scrollwork that extend throughout the neck and base in layered decorative bands. The Japanese Meiji period vase is signed Seikozan in short form (精巧山) to the underside, with painted and impressed studio marks showing it was both potted and painted in the same Kyoto workshop. It dates to the Meiji period, circa 1905, and is a fine example of Satsuma ware from the turn of the 20th century, characterised by its finely detailed figural decoration and lavish use of gilding. This Meiji period Satsuma vase is particularly notable for its unusual form, expressive painting, and carefully applied gilt, making it an excellent addition to any collection of Satsuma, Japanese ceramics, or interior space in need of an elegant accent piece. Know your artists SEIKOZAN Seikozan is among the most respected names in Meiji-period Satsuma ware, known for exceptional quality and intricate painted scenes of daily life. Active in the late 19th to early 20th century, Seikozan is believed to have worked in Kobe, though whether the name refers to a single artist, studio, or trading house remains debated. For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on Seikozan. Learn THE JAPANESE 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. Learn About SATSUMA WARE Satsuma ware originated in southern Kyūshū 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 Kyō-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 Kinkōzan 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 13.5cm High x 8cm Diameter (5.3 x 3.15 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. 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. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.
