RANZAN: A PAIR OF SATSUMA MINIATURE BALUSTER VASES By Ranzan, signed Kono shina wa Toyo no bijutsu Satsuma-yaki Ranzan no zo
Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

Each with baluster sides rising from a spreading foot to a waisted neck with everted rim, and enameled and gilt with two shaped reserves enclosing scenes with warriors and street merchants, respectively, the ground densely decorated with butterflies and gilt stippling interspersed with diapered designs, the shoulder with a variety of brocade patterns, the neck again with butterflies below floral scroll repeated on the foot, and the gilt rim with a geometric band. Each signed Kono shina wa Toyo no bijutsu Satsuma-yaki RANZAN no zo (This is a fine Oriental Art object made by Ranzan, Satsuma ware) to the base.

HEIGHT 9.2 cm and 9.3 cm

Condition: One vase with a repaired chip to the mouth, otherwise in very good condition with minor surface wear and minimal firing flaws.
Provenance: French private collection.

Ranzan literally means “Orchid and Mountain”. The kiln often inscribed its products with extensive texts referring to fine art, Orient, Great Japan, and the like.