Lot 263

Large Japanese Satsuma-Style Earthenware Vase with Monkey Figures, Meiji Revival, Hand-Painted

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Lot 263
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Large Japanese Satsuma-Style Earthenware Vase with Monkey Figures, Meiji Revival, Hand-Painted
Large Japanese Satsuma-Style Earthenware Vase with Monkey Figures, Meiji Revival, Hand-Painted
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Large Japanese Satsuma-Style Earthenware Vase with Monkey Figures, Meiji Revival, Hand-Painted

Current Bid: $30

(5 Bids)
by California Auction Company LLC
August 1, 2026 9:00 AM PDT
Live Auction
1212 E. Harding Way
Stockton, CA, US 95205

A large and visually striking Japanese Satsuma-style earthenware vase featuring an unusual hand-painted decoration of playful monkeys climbing through flowering branches against a vibrant celadon-green ground. Executed in the decorative traditions popularized during the late Meiji period and later revival wares, the composition depicts finely detailed simian figures dressed in colorful garments, animated amongst bamboo, foliage, and flowering vines, creating a whimsical narrative that encircles the vessel. The elegant ovoid form is enhanced by a softly tapering foot and broad cylindrical neck accented with gilt rims. The monkeys, each individually rendered with expressive faces and richly colored attire, reflect the enduring East Asian artistic fascination with monkeys as symbols of intelligence, agility, and good fortune. The harmonious palette of pale green, soft ivory, rich reds, blues, and warm browns creates an appealing balance between decorative artistry and traditional Japanese design. Large hand-painted decorative vases of this quality became increasingly popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries for export to Europe and America, where they were admired for their exotic subject matter and exceptional craftsmanship. Today they remain sought-after decorative objects, appreciated for their distinctive imagery, impressive scale, and vibrant hand-painted surfaces. An exceptional statement piece well suited for collectors of Japanese decorative arts, Asian ceramics, or refined interior decoration.

  • Literature: Japanese export ceramics inspired by Satsuma and Kutani traditions enjoyed widespread popularity during the late Meiji, Taishō, and early Shōwa periods. Decorative vases featuring figural, animal, and landscape motifs were produced for both domestic and export markets and remain desirable among collectors of Asian decorative arts.
  • Circa: Early to mid-20th century, circa 1920–1950.
  • Condition: Overall very good vintage condition. Hand-painted decoration remains vibrant with light, age-appropriate wear. Gilt trim exhibits minor rubbing consistent with age and handling. No obvious cracks, chips, or repairs visible in the provided photographs. Interior and base not fully examined.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50