Japanese Satsuma Vases with Eagles and Blossoming Branches

Description Japanese Satsuma vases produced during the Meiji Period, decorated with large opposing eagles perched upon flowering branches and surrounded by finely painted seasonal ornament. Each vase is of elegant ovoid form and extensively decorated in polychrome enamels and gilt across the surface. The principal decoration shows powerful eagles standing upon naturalistic tree branches amongst trailing wisteria and blossoming cherry, their wings partially extended and feathers carefully layered with detailed gilt work and tonal shading. The birds are rendered with strong movement and presence, a subject frequently associated with strength and authority within Meiji period decorative arts produced for export. Surrounding the upper shoulder is a dense floral collar composed of chrysanthemum, peony, cosmos and further seasonal flowers painted in bright enamels against a soft ground, forming a continuous band beneath the rim. Additional flowering sprays extend across the body creating balance between the large figural subjects and the surrounding decoration. The bases retain traces of an original rectangular signature reserve, now worn and no longer legible through age and handling. The painting quality, palette and composition are consistent with Kyoto workshop production during the late nineteenth century when Satsuma ware was produced for the Western export market. A decorative pair of Meiji Period Japanese Satsuma vases combining bold natural subject matter with finely controlled enamel decoration suited to both collectors and interior placement. View our full Japanese Satsuma Collection. View our full Vase collection. MEASUREMENTS 24.5cm High x 12.5cm Diameter (9.65 x 4.9 Inches) CONDITION Very Good Antique Condition WHAT IS 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. WHAT IS SATSUMA WARE? Satsuma ware originated in southern Kyushu 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 Kyo-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 Kinkozan 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. 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.