Pair Of Japanese Imari Vases, Genroku Period (c. 1688–1704)

Polychrome and gilt enamelled porcelain, with domed lid and guardian lion finial
A superb and highly decorative pair of Imari porcelain vases, each measuring approximately 90 cm in height, produced in the Arita kilns during the Genroku period of late 17th-century Japan. These impressive pieces were made for export via the Dutch East India Company (VOC), destined for aristocratic European collections.
The baluster-shaped bodies are adorned with finely painted enamels in iron red (aka-e), cobalt blue underglaze and rich gilding. The main decoration features cranes in a flowering landscape of pine, plum, chrysanthemum and bamboo — all auspicious symbols of longevity, virtue and seasonal renewal. The shoulders and lids are encircled by hexagonal medallions with stylised floral patterns, reminiscent of imperial brocades.
Each lid is surmounted by a vividly modelled shishi (Buddhist guardian lion), adding both sculptural and protective character to the ensemble.
Large-scale pairs of this quality and preservation are exceedingly rare and can be compared to examples in leading institutions such as the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the British Royal Collection.
An outstanding and museum-worthy example of Japanese export porcelain at its zenith.