Japan - Pair Of Satsuma Faience Vases - Meiji - Late 19th Century.

A pair of crackle-glazed earthenware vases with polychrome decoration and gold highlights, baluster-shaped with flared necks, Japan, Meiji period (1868–1912), Satsuma production intended for export. The vases have an ovoid body resting on a slightly tapered base, flaring out towards a wide neck adorned with a geometric and floral frieze finely highlighted in gold. The main decoration is arranged in large rectangular reserves framed by hexagonal geometric motifs and gilded trelliswork. The figurative scenes depict children (karako) in refined interiors, surrounded by literati objects: scrolls, vases, writing sets, and stylized plant compositions. The execution is meticulous, characterized by precise design, abundant use of raised gilding, and a subtle palette blending ferruginous reds, celadon greens, soft blues, and ochres. The backgrounds are treated with a gold mesh over ivory slip, punctuated with small, regular dots, typical of Satsuma workshops of the late 19th century. The frames alternate geometric patterns inspired by traditional Japanese textiles and ornamental cartouches of classical inspiration. The quality of execution, the richness of the gilding, and the balanced composition place this pair within a carefully produced collection intended for the Western market during the Meiji era, a period marked by a strong expansion of Japanese exports to Europe. Origin: Japan. Period: Meiji period (1868–1912) – Late 19th century, circa 1880–1900. Dimensions: Height 24.5 cm; Diameter 10 cm. Condition: Very good. Provenance: French private collection.