Japanese Ceramic Vase by Makuzu Kozan

A porcelain vase by Japanese Meiji imperial potter Makuzu Kozan (1842-1916), circa 1890-1910s. The vase is made in what is considered early phase of his underglaze period during late Meiji era. In a classic baluster form with a short neck flared to the mouth rim, the surface of the vase was decorated with underglaze white magnolia blossom on a pleasant celadon jade green background. The stamens of the flower were artistically rendered in tiny yellow dots; the petals and the background in fading gradient, a technique unique to Makuzu ware called Morotai (Hazy style), giving the design a realistic appeal with the dimensional appeal. Marked with artist's name in a square seal from with underglaze blue on the base. Work of similar style could be found in the artist's repertoire in late Meiji Period.
Compare this vase to a similar one illustrated on page 189 in the book "Miyagawa Kozan Retrospective".
Known also as Miyagawa Kozan (1842-1916), he is one of the most established and collected ceramists from Meiji Period. Born as Miyagawa Toranosuke, Kozan established his pottery studio in Yokohama circa 1870s and later became one of the appointed artists to the Japanese Imperial household. Kozan Studio started experimenting with then newly available colors from the west in the 1880s, which resulted in the expansion of the palette and style that bridged the east and west aesthetic tradition. His work was exhibited in many international fairs that the Meiji government participated at the turn of the century and won many grand prizes.