Large Japanese Meiji Satsuma Vase By Hotoda With 1000 Arhats And Dragon

An impressive large Japanese Satsuma vase from the Meiji period, made by the respected Hotoda workshop of Yokohama. Hotoda was one of the leading exporters of high-quality Japanese ceramics during the Meiji period, known for extremely fine facial painting, rich gilding and elaborate hand-decorated surfaces. With a height of 37.5 cm and a weight of 2542 grams, this is a substantial hand-made ceramic work, not a small decorative object. Its scale, weight and richly worked surface make it a strong visual statement piece for a sophisticated interior, gallery setting or collection of Japanese Meiji art.

The vase is decorated with the complex Buddhist religious subject of the “1000 Arhats”, enlightened saints and disciples of Buddhist tradition, arranged around a central figure and a finely detailed dragon. The painting is particularly strong in the treatment of the faces: each figure has an individual expression, with intense eyes, arched brows, exposed teeth, moustaches and carefully drawn features. The dragon’s head and eyes are also rendered with considerable care, creating a dramatic focal point within the lower section of the design.

The decoration combines rich gilding, raised moriage work, finely drawn robes, black and white dotted grounds, stylised waves and Buddhist medallions around the neck. The overall effect is dense, theatrical and highly decorative, while retaining a clear religious and iconographic character. This is a high-quality example of Meiji Satsuma from a known workshop, with strong interior presence and collector appeal.

The base bears the Shimazu crest above the gilt mark reading Satsuma Hotoda zo. Date: Meiji period, circa 1895–1905.

Condition is very good overall. There is restoration and overpainting to the neck/rim area, visible mainly from one side and not disturbing the overall composition. The main body, figures, dragon, gilding and raised moriage decoration remain impressive and display beautifully.

Dimensions:
Height: 37.5 cm
Width: 21 cm
Depth: 17 cm
Weight: 2542 g

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.