Antique Handpainted Bud Vases, Satsuma, Signed By Gyokushū, Meiji Period

This antique pair of hand-painted Japanese bud vases, featuring long necks, was created by the Satsuma and painted by the renowned artist Gyokushu, who worked for Satsuma during the Meiji period. Gyokushu became well-known for painting landscapes, battle scenes, and decorative pieces. The vases are adorned in golden-brown muted tones with identical depictions on opposite sides—two on each vase—showcasing serene natural landscapes, including a bird perched on a flowering tree. The vases were crafted using the traditional Satsuma technique of applied enamel and gilding on a glazed background, a hallmark of Satsuma’s style. The light brown base color of the vases is decorated with ornate gilded motifs in an oriental style, and the artist’s signature appears on the pieces, making them a unique addition to any collection. Dating back to the 19th century, these antique vases are a true treasure. Their beautiful design and craftsmanship reflect the high level of skill possessed by the Japanese artisans who created them. Inscriptions on the bottom of the vases confirm their authenticity: "Great Japan," "Satsuma ware," "Painted by Gyokushu," along with the Shimazu family crest.
Each vase was meticulously handcrafted, a long and painstaking process that enhances their uniqueness and desirability among collectors worldwide. Eastern antiques are characterized by their sophistication and refinement, blending the cultures of many Asian peoples, and are considered highly valuable. Antique vases, especially those from Japan, are among the most sought-after collectibles due to their rich history and elegant appearance. Japanese vases differ significantly from their European counterparts, with oriental decor easily recognizable by intricate carvings, patterns, and vibrant paintings that often tell stories. Satsuma ware originated in the 17th century in the southern regions of Kyushu, Japan, under the Shimazu clan's control (Satsuma-han, now officially Kagoshima and the surrounding areas). The early Satsuma pottery, which dates back to around 1600, was typically plain and made from dark clay, a stark contrast to the highly ornate and colorful 19th-century pieces produced for export to the West.
Dimensions: height 23.5 cm, diameter 11.3 cm, weight 661 grams both
Condition: Excellent
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.