Kozan Makuzu

A Japanese Porcelain Vase by Makuzu Kozan Meiji Era

Documentation

Signed

Documentation Notes

signed

Origin

Japan

Period

1900-1919

Materials

ceramic

Dimensions

H.	9.75 in;	Diam.	4.2 in;
H.	24.77 cm;	Diam.	10.67 cm;

Condition

Good. Fine antque condition, some kiln mark on the base

Creation Date

1900-1910s

Description

An elegant vase with in tapering ovoid shape with wisteria design by Miyagawa Kōzan (1842–1916), one of the most established and collected Japanese ceramist from Meiji Period. Commonly known as Makuzu Kozan, which also appears as the signature on his work, his originally birth name was Miyagawa Toranosuke. He was the appointed artist to the Japanese Imperial household and his work was exhibited in many international fairs that the Meiji government participated at the turn of the century.
The vase has a beautiful celadon green color in a graceful form, on which bundles of white and blue wisteria flowers sway in the wind. This design was one of the most iconic used in porcelain and cloisonne during Meiji period. It reflects the beloved poetic plant in full bloom, at the peak but also with a sense of a fleeting glory, a Japanese aesthetic that emphasizes on ephemeral beauty.
For a vase by Makuzu Kozan with a similar wisteria design in the collection of Ashmolean Museum Oxford England, see page 22 of Japanese Decorative Arts of the Meiji Period by Oliver Impey and Joyce Seaman. Story fund number 1991.1

Styles / Movements

Art Pottery, Asian, Modern

Incollect Reference Number

298727