Lot 773: A Large Meiji Period Japanese Imari Porcelain Baluster Vase
A large Japanese export porcelain vase of baluster form, dating from the Meiji period (1868-1912). The vessel is decorated in the traditional Imari palette, utilising underglaze blue, overglaze iron-red, and green enamels, further enriched with extensive gilded highlights. The main body features two large, shaped reserve panels. The visible panel depicts a pair of peacocks, a male with a long trailing tail and a female, set within a landscape of flowering cherry blossoms and peonies. The surrounding ground and the neck are densely decorated in a “horror vacui” style with various geometric brocade patterns, including diaper, scale, and floral motifs. The neck also features smaller panels containing stylised foliate and bird designs. The vase has a short neck terminating in a widely flared, undulating rim. No maker’s marks are visible. Two modern adhesive inventory labels are present on the body, one white label numbered 19 and one orange label numbered 113.
Condition report:
The vase is in good overall condition. There is minor rubbing to the gilding on the high points of the decoration and around the rim, which is consistent with age and handling. No significant chips, cracks, or restorations are visible from the primary view. Modern paper labels are adhered to the surface.
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