Kutani Ware Hand-Painted Vase / Decorative Jar with the Seven Lucky Gods, Japan

This large hand-painted Kutani ware vase (decorative jar) from Japan has a full, stately form. Made with traditional Japanese Kutani painting techniques, its body is painted with extremely fine brushwork depicting the Shichifukujin (Seven Lucky Gods), the most representative auspicious deities of Japanese folk belief. The scene includes figures such as Jurōjin, Hotei, Ebisu and Daikokuten, their expressions lively and natural, set among pine trees, landscapes, auspicious clouds and coastal scenery, giving a strong character of traditional Japanese auspicious culture. The colours are vivid without being garish; the figures' robes, facial expressions and background scenery were all painted stroke by stroke by the artisan, fully displaying the painting skill for which Kutani ware is known worldwide. The base bears a kiln mark, typical of collectable Japanese ceramics; the piece combines artistic appreciation, cultural symbolism and collecting value.

Price NT$ 3,000 ≈ US$ 94(Approximate amount; actual prices are in New Taiwan Dollars)
Dimensions
L 20 × W 20 × H 24.6 cm
Category
Vintage Vases
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Features

About the Seven Lucky Gods

The Shichifukujin, or Seven Lucky Gods, are the most popular group of auspicious deities in Japan.

Each stands for:

Ebisu

Represents:

thriving business

wealth and good harvest

prosperous fishing

Daikokuten

Represents:

wealth

good fortune

a prospering household

Bishamonten

Represents:

victory

protection

courage

Benzaiten

Represents:

artistic talent

wisdom

fortune in money

Fukurokuju

Represents:

good fortune

status

Long life

Jurōjin

Represents:

Long life

health

Peace and safety

Hoteison

Represents:

joy

Completeness

good relations with others

The Seven Lucky Gods have therefore long been regarded as:

an auspicious symbol of wealth, good fortune, longevity, safety and success in work.

■ Classic Hand-Painted Kutani Ware

Kutani ware is one of Japan's most representative fine enamelled porcelains.

It is renowned for:

opulent colour

fine brushwork

lively depiction of figures

high collectable value

known throughout the world.

The figures here have natural expressions and flowing drapery, fully showing the character of traditional Kutani work.

■ The Complete Seven Lucky Gods Theme

Pieces showing a single lucky god are the more common on the market.

This piece brings all seven gods together on one vessel.

It symbolises:

wealth flowing in

lasting good fortune

a prospering household

prosperity in business

longevity and peace

carrying an excellent meaning of good fortune and blessing.

■ Impressive Presence at a Large Size

It stands 24.6 cm high.

This is a large display vase.

Placed in:

an entrance hall

a living room

a display cabinet

a tea room

a company lobby

it will be the focal point.

■ Both a Collectable and a Feng Shui Piece

The Seven Lucky Gods are one of Japan's most representative auspicious subjects.

They are especially popular with:

collectors of Japanese antiques

Kutani ware enthusiasts

collectors of tea ceremony wares

business owners

shopkeepers

all of whom favour them.

All dimensions are measured by hand and may vary by ±1 cm.

Because of differences in computer displays, the item may differ somewhat from the photographs, for example in colour and tone. In addition, every item in our shop is an antique or vintage piece; being old, such pieces will inevitably carry traces of history or of use. To avoid unnecessary disputes, please buy only if you do not mind this. If you are a perfectionist, please do not place an order. (Auction notes) (Please also read the shopping notes in full.)

Specifications

Dimensions L 20 × W 20 × H 24.6 cm
Size Notes Length 20 cm × width 20 cm × height 24.6 cm / (rim diameter approx. 10.5 cm)