Rare Porcelain Bowl with Plique-a-Jour Design by Makuzu Kozan

An extremely fine and delicate porcelain bowl from the studio of Japanese Potter Makuzu Kōzan, also known as Miyagawa Kozan (1842–1916), one of the most established and collected ceramist from Meiji Period. Born as Miyagawa Toranosuke, Kozan established his pottery studio in Yokohama around 1870s and later became one of the appointed artist to the Japanese Imperial household. His work was exhibited in many international fairs that the Meiji government participated at the turn of the century and won many grand prizes.
This particular vessel was made with very fine bone china, thin and delicate to the touch. It plays with the concept of a fish bowl by taking the exact form despite of the improper size to serve such a function. The three fish on the exterior, however, render a humorous delusion that anything is possible. As it may not be a bowl to contain the fish but certainly it can still a "fish" bowl!
What is amazing about this piece is that the fish was outlined in red enamel and crafted in plique-a-jour fashion with a semi-transparent enamel filling the cloisonne. It looks quite magical when lit from within, as shown in the pictures. The fish, in various motions, vividly jump out of the waves. Both the red used in the scales of the fish and the lime green for the wave twinkle a slightly gem tone, gives this piece a jewel-like quality.
Kozan was renowned for exploring the novel ceramic techniques that became available around 1900s and he experimented with new colors from the West that were freshly bright. This endeavor opened many creative possibilities in his design and work. This piece is a superb example of how his studio bridged the east and the west to create one of a kind masterpiece.