Sometsuke Large Vase with Cloud-and-Dragon Design, Japan
This large Japanese blue-and-white vase with cloud-and-dragon decoration is a top-tier ceramic artwork displaying imperial grandeur and powerful painting skill. The body is painted in finely toned blue with a “five-clawed cloud dragon,” its body coiled and its scales clearly defined, showing its sacred majesty as it rides the clouds amid drifting clouds and flame motifs. Its imposing height of 46 cm and full tenkyūbin (globular) form give it great visual impact. The base bears a distinctive bell-shaped mark, symbolizing the resonance and passing down of craft, making it a highly recognizable fine piece.