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Japanese Satsuma ceramic moon flask vase with gilded scroll handles, fine cream crackle glaze, and hand-painted geisha figures in colorful kimonos surrounded by raised moriage enamel beading along the shoulders and borders. - Photo 1

Vintage Japanese Satsuma Moon Flask Vase Hand-Painted Geisha Moriage Ceramic

$70.00
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Crafted in the distinguished tradition of Japanese export ceramics, this mid-twentieth-century moon flask vase showcases the classic hallmarks of Satsuma earthenware. Characterized by its flattened circular pilgrim form and arched gilded scroll handles flanking the neck, the vessel provides an expansive ceramic canvas for intricate surface ornamentation. The body is coated in a warm ivory glaze displaying a network of fine, deliberate crazing known as kan'yu, which forms the traditional backdrop for richly pigmented enamel and gilding. A raised moriage beaded border in deep oxblood and white encircles the central reserve, complementing the turquoise and forest green slipwork that swathes the vessel's shoulders and cylindrical neck. The central tableau depicts a charming narrative scene featuring three elegant geisha figures conversing upon an open wooden veranda beside blossoming boughs and gentle waters. Each figure is rendered with expressive brushwork, adorned in layered flowing kimonos detailed with delicate gold luster outlines, patterned geometric sashes, and floral motifs. Applied moriage accents introduce tactile dimensionality across the figures' garments and surrounding architecture, demonstrating the labor-intensive decorative techniques that defined post-war Japanese ceramic export studios. The underside bears the distinctive red iron-stamped Satsuma designation beneath the crest of the historic Shimazu clan, a hallmark signifying the enduring heritage of Kagoshima and Kyoto ceramic artistry. Exhibiting excellent vintage presentation with intact moriage beading, vibrant enameling, and age-consistent shelf wear to the unglazed foot rim, this striking moon flask makes an exceptional focal point on a mantle, console, or within a curated Asian art collection. This piece measures approximately 7 inches in height, 5.5 inches in width, 1.5 inches in depth, and weighs approximately 1.1 pounds.

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