Object Description
From our collection of Japanese Meiji-era (1868-1912) Satsuma ware, this very fine vase with complex and lively panoramic scenes of a village on the banks of Mount Fuji.
It appears to be a stop-off for pilgrims on their way to the sacred mountain. Some are travelling by foot, some accompanied by mules with supplies, and a few by boat.
Toro lanterns and way markers can be seen among the brightly coloured crowds of people and a Torii gate with paper Shide streamers can be glimpsed in the background. One side of the vase features distinguished men and women admiring cherry blossom, and socialising while children play blind man’s bluff.
The two main panels are on a complex multilayer ground made up of Mon (emblems) and patterns inspired by Kimono fabrics. The main Mon featured is that of Oda no Nobobunaga, (one of the leading figures during the Sengoku period of Japan). Also seen on the shoulders of the vase is the Mon of the Tokugawa clan, it is also a common symbol in Japan used to represent the last Shogunate.
Signed Ryozan for Yasuda Great Japan with the Shimazu crest. The vase is 30cm in height, 28cm across at the widest point and 16cm across at the neck.