Fine Meiji Japanese Satsuma Bowl Signed Kozan, C. 1890–1905

A superb Japanese Satsuma bowl from the Meiji period, signed Kozan, dating to circa 1890–1905. This is not ordinary export ware or mass-produced decoration, but an individual work by a highly accomplished Satsuma master, with refined figure painting, rich gilding and beautifully preserved enamel colours.

Kozan is a major and highly respected name in Japanese Satsuma ceramics. Works by Kozan are regularly sold by leading international auction houses, including Christie’s and Bonhams, and his name confidently belongs among the top ten most desirable Japanese Satsuma makers and decorators of the Meiji period.

The quality is immediately visible in the individually painted faces, the carefully detailed kimono, the delicate garden scene and the dense but controlled gold ornament. The interior depicts women and children in richly decorated robes beneath flowering branches. Around the central composition are further shaped reserves with landscape and floral subjects, set into elaborate brocade-style grounds in gold and coloured enamels.

The exterior is decorated with a continuous floral band, giving the bowl strong decorative presence from every angle. The underside bears a red rectangular gilt signature panel reading Kozan. The bowl has the characteristic fine cream crackle glaze associated with Satsuma ware.

Measurements

• Height: 6.4 cm (2.5″)
• Diameter: 15.6 cm (6.1″)
• Weight: 400 g

Condition

Excellent antique condition. The bowl has been checked under UV light and shows no cracks, no restoration and no structural problems. The paint, enamels and gilding are exceptionally well preserved. Only minimal rubbing to the gilding on the rim is visible under magnification. The wooden stand shown in the photographs is for display only and is not included.

Shipping & Packaging

Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling and secure postage.
Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.

Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.
Questions are welcome.