Fine Meiji Japanese Satsuma Bowl Signed Gyokkō, C. 1890–1910

A very fine Japanese Satsuma bowl from the Meiji period, signed Gyokkō, dating to circa 1890–1910. This is a highly decorative individual Satsuma work, with an elegant interior landscape, finely painted figures, rich gilding and a beautifully composed exterior bamboo design.

The bowl has the warm cream crackled glaze associated with Meiji-period Satsuma, decorated with polychrome enamels and extensive gilt detail. The interior scene depicts women and a child in a Japanese landscape with temple architecture, pagodas, trees, hills, water and a distant mountain. The composition has excellent decorative balance, combining human figures, architecture and landscape in a compact but visually rich form.

The quality is visible in the architectural details, the gilt robe decoration, the delicate parasols, the layered trees and the atmospheric landscape background. The exterior is decorated with a continuous bamboo design, which gives the bowl a refined and elegant appearance when viewed from the outside. The gilt border around the rim frames the whole piece beautifully.

The underside bears a red rectangular gilt signature panel reading Gyokkō / 玉光. This appears to be a Meiji-period Satsuma decorator or workshop name.

Measurements

• Height: 5 cm (2.0″)
• Diameter: 12.7 cm (5.0″)
• Weight: 195 g

Condition

Excellent condition. The bowl has been checked under UV light and shows no cracks, no restoration and no structural problems. There are no visible condition problems. The colours, enamels and gilding are very well preserved.

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.