$1,800.00
Earthenware pair with mirror-image decorated overall with figures of Buddhist Arhats (enlightened followers of the Buddha). The Arhats are depicted in various enamel colors wearing brocade robes picked out in gold enamel. A dragon writhes among them, painted in slightly raised enamel and stylized rocks surround the vases beneath the Arhats’ feet. The Satsuma crest is seen in gold enamel on the shoulder of each vase. The bases are inscribed with the artist’s name: Hakuzan, and a small Satsuma crest all in gold on a red enamel rectangle. Vases come in original black paper-covered wood presentation box, lidded and hinged in the western style, and the fitted interior is covered in padded silk. Both vases are in very good condition, no chips or cracks.
Height: 12 1/8 in.
$225.00
This Satsuma ware tea caddy is made in the shape of a lacquer natsume tea caddy for use in the tea ceremony as a container for powdered green tea. This shape is given this name because it resembles a natsume plum. It is glazed overall with a finely crackled clear glaze showing the buff-colored clay body beneath. Overglaze enamels decorate the top and sides with open and closed fan designs. The interiors of both the lid and container are glazed as is also the base. The base is slightly recessed and a narrow portion of the foot is unglazed exposing the clay body—now darkened from use. The exposed inner rim likewise is naturally stained from years of use. Tea caddies of this form were usually made of wood and lacquer. Ceramic ones are not usually encountered. The design of this piece may have been inspired by the earlier, well-known potter, Nonomura Ninsei (c. 1574-1660), who worked in Kyoto and produced numerous articles in overglaze enameled earthenware for tea ceremony use. Good condition overall—some wear to the gilt enamel. No chips, cracks or repairs.
Height: 2 7/8 in.; Diameter: 3 in.