Meiji–Taishō Style Satsuma-Type Large Vase with Continuous Figural Scenes on Four Sides and Fine Gilt Decoration
This large vintage Japanese ceramic vase is distinguished by the highly characteristic fine figure painting and gilt decoration of the Satsuma type. The body is tall and multi-faceted, narrowing to a small mouth above, with upright, well-balanced lines; together with its gilt display stand, the piece has a strong presence and classical grandeur from body to base. Its greatest appeal is that each of the four sides bears a different continuous figural scene. Rather than simply repeating the same design, it presents different figures, settings and narrative scenes as four scenes on one vessel. One side depicts women in a garden under the moon, with trees, a full moon and a distant view in the background, in a quiet, elegant mood. Another shows a gathering of men, one of whom unrolls a scroll or admires painting and calligraphy, strongly evoking a literati gathering. A further side depicts a group of more martial figures, their expressions, costumes and postures very vivid. Together with the cherry blossoms, beauties and scenes of daily life seen previously, each of the four sides has its own content, so the piece presents a complete picture from any angle.
