Large Exceptional Japanese Ceramic Moriage Moon Flask Vase Meiji Kinkozan

A large and rare Japanese ceramic vase of exceptional quality from late Meiji period circa 1900-10s by Kinkozan (1645-1927). One of the largest studio manufacturers of the export ceramics at the time based in Kyoto. In the typical decorated style of satsuma ware made at the turn of 20th century, the superb vase is of an impressive size in a rare full moon flask shape. The form was originated from central Asia and came to Japan by way of Yuan and Ming Dynastic China. The surface was densely decorated with kinran-de (gold paint) with fine moriage details. The bedazzling designs cover the entire surface, anchored on each facade by a medallion with a coiled dragon in the center. Embedded in a geometrical lattice-like background bedecked with groups of seasonal blossoms, the medallion is surrounded by many auspicious symbols, including flaming pearl, flying butterfly, fan, ribbon knots, Sheng (a bamboo instrument), hand-chimes, and Zither (a stringed instrument) and other smaller Buddhist symbols. The sided are decorated with large chrysanthemum flowers with long curly petals. The neck showcases moriage scrolling design centered by a large kikunogomon, which has sixteen petals resembling the imperial kiku insignia. The recessed base of the vase is signed in gilt Kanji characters "Great Nippon, Kyoto, Made by Kinkozan" as shown.
This presentation vase is of museum-quality, no doubt made to the highest standard by a master decorator from Kinkozan workshop. What sets it apart are its large size, the unusual exotic form, the meticulously and masterfully surface decoration with subtle moriage effect, and the central dragon motif. It was possibly made for an international expose or associated with the imperial household.