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Signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma Vase with Dragon and Butterflies, C.1890
Sold by Gillers Antiques Ltd
sold SA1173068
Sorry, but this item has been sold.
Gillers Antiques Ltd

Gillers Antiques Ltd

Sellingantiques Verified Since Mar 2023
Browse dealers 401 items
Id #SA1173068
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Signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma Vase with Dragon and Butterflies, C.1890

19th century
Sold 31 October 2025 · Gillers Antiques Ltd
This “Signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma Vase with Dragon and Butterflies, C.1890” found a buyer.

It was listed by Gillers Antiques Ltd. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.

Description

A beautiful late-Meiji Satsuma vase of tobin-gata form with twin loop handles, finely decorated in raised moriage enamels and gold by the Kinkozan workshop, Kyoto, circa 1890. One side depicts a dragon among clouds, the other butterflies in flight — a rare and symbolic pairing. Executed entirely by hand with “liquid gold” (mizukane), a hallmark of Kinkozan’s Kyoto production. The base bears the red mark “Nihon Kinkozan-zo,” meaning “Made by Kinkozan, Japan,” confirming authenticity. A fine and uncommon example of Meiji-period craftsmanship, notable for its harmony of strength and delicacy. A collectible Meiji-period Satsuma vase, prized for its artistry and exceptional survival in original condition.

Dimensions: height 30.5 cm; diameter 16 cm; weight 1273 g

Condition: Excellent antique condition with only light age-related glaze craquelure.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.

Declaration

Gillers Antiques Ltd has dated this Japanese Satsuma Vase to the 1890s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1173068
Description
A beautiful late-Meiji Satsuma vase of tobin-gata form with twin loop handles, finely decorated in raised moriage enamels and gold by the Kinkozan workshop, Kyoto, circa 1890.
“
One side depicts a dragon among clouds, the other butterflies in flight — a rare and symbolic pairing.
Gillers Antiques Ltd

Executed entirely by hand with “liquid gold” (mizukane), a hallmark of Kinkozan’s Kyoto production. The base bears the red mark “Nihon Kinkozan-zo,” meaning “Made by Kinkozan, Japan,” confirming authenticity. A fine and uncommon example of Meiji-period craftsmanship, notable for its harmony of strength and delicacy. A collectible Meiji-period Satsuma vase, prized for its artistry and exceptional survival in original condition.

fig 1. A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body.
fig 1. Signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma Vase with Dragon and Butterflies, C.1890

Dimensions: height 30.5 cm; diameter 16 cm; weight 1273 g

Condition: Excellent antique condition with only light age-related glaze craquelure.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.

Date of Manufacture

Gillers Antiques Ltd has dated this Japanese Satsuma Vase to the 1890s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1173068
Gillers Antiques Ltd
Gillers Antiques Ltd
Sellingantiques verified Since Mar 2023
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Gillers Antiques Ltd Profile Page

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A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. SOLD6+ MONTHS AGO
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Archive I A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. SOLD6+ MONTHS AGO

Signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma Vase with Dragon and Butterflies, C.1890

Archive II A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View II
Archive III A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View III
Archive IV A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View IV
Archive V A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View V
Archive VI A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View VI
Archive VII A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View VII
Archive VIII A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View VIII
Archive IX A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View IX
Archive X A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View X
Archive XI A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View XI
Archive XII A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body. View XII
Enlarged Archival View
Telephone 07738 009924
Location
Buckland House
Buntingford
Hertfordshire
SG9 0PY
United Kingdom
Verified Since Mar 2023
Items For Sale 401
Items Sold 576
Gillers Antiques Ltd
Gillers Antiques Ltd
Verified Since Mar 2023
View Dealer Info
Location: Buckland House, Buntingford, Hertfordshire, SG9 0PY, United Kingdom
Verified
Mar 2023
For Sale
401
Sold
576
A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body.
Signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma Vase with Dragon and Butterflies, c.1890
Ref: SA1173068
A signed Kinkozan Japanese Satsuma ceramic vase featuring detailed hand-painted dragons, butterflies, and gilt ornamentation on an ivory crackle-glaze body.
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Archival Detail
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Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectVessels
  • Period19th century
  • Style[Meiji Period, Satsuma, Japonisme]
  • Material[Ceramic, Earthenware, Gold Leaf, Enamel]
  • ColourIvory
  • MotifsDragon, Butterflies, Crackle glaze, Gilt scrollwork

Satsuma ware is a type of Japanese earthenware originating from Satsuma Province, traditionally characterised by an ivory-coloured, crackle-glazed ceramic body decorated with elaborate enamels and gilt. Production peaked during the Meiji period in the late 19th century, when these items were extensively exported to Western markets.

Traditional Satsuma pieces are constructed from an earthenware clay body, covered with a transparent crackle glaze known as kannyu. Artisans then apply detailed polychrome enamel paints and raised gold leaf gilding to create intricate, textured surface designs.

Authentic period pieces typically feature finely crazed cream glazes, meticulous hand-painted details with heavy moriage enamelling, and hand-written maker signatures or studio seals on the base, often corresponding to renowned kilns such as Kinkozan.

Position the piece as a focal point on a plain surface, such as a sideboard top or mantelpiece, allowing its intricate patterns and metallic details to contrast with minimalist, neutral surroundings.

Keep ceramic pieces out of direct sunlight to prevent enamel fading, dust gently with a soft dry cloth, and avoid using any water or chemical cleaning agents on crackle-glazed or gilded surfaces.
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