Fine and Rare Miniature Satsuma Vase by Taizan Yohei

A very fine miniature ceramic vase in satsuma ware by Taizan Yohei (1864-1922) circa 1880-1890s of late Meiji period. The vase with a broad flat shoulder was lavishly decorated with colored enamels in merticulous details. On the background of mixed symbols, the exterior surface was showcased with three main scenes confined within the borders of "cartouches" of distinct shapes. One scene is a group of children gathered to play music instruments. The other is a group of ladies performing a formal court music. The third one is a pictorial depiction of nature in which an egret perched among lotus flowers. Between these larger cartouches, there are smaller imageries including an accoutrement of tea wares for chado and a lavishly wrapped gift box presented on a tray. On the shoulder, three small zones are centered with birds and butterflies evenly distributed among the symbolic background. The base is press-marked "Taizan". The workmanship of this vase is superb, and the subject matters are classical. The work can be compared with similar high caliber work by Yabu Meizan and Seikozan, who were celebrated for their miniature work of art.
Fine and miniature work like this vase is uncommon among the existing Taizan's work. This vase is likely dated to early period of his career. Taizan Yohei (Taizan IX) was adopted in 1878 into the Taizan family, a potter family active as early as 1670s. In 1872, Taizan VIII started to export of their products together with Kinkozan IV. Taizan IX continued to expand the family business and collaborate with Kinkozan until 1894 and possibly later until 1900s but at a smaller scale. His work with Kinkozan was mostly known in the west where they often co-signed the work.