Large Japanese Ceramic Vase with Flying Autunm Geese by Kinkozan Studio

A large Japanese ceramic vase from the end of Meiji period circa 1890-1910s by Kinkozan (1645-1927). One of the largest studio manufacturers of the export ceramics at the time based in Kyoto. In the typical style of satsuma made at the turn of 20th century, the baluster-form vase is elaborately decorated in polychrome glaze. The beautiful imagery showcases a large flock of geese under a full autumn moon among the reeds and grasses. The seasonal motif with these migratory birds is one of the most enduring subjects in Japanese art that evokes an introspective mood that comes with the change of the seasons. The composition benefits from the circular surface, as when one turns the vase, the image starts to show different perspective and much motion. The realistic but stylized depiction of the birds, as well as the use of Fuki-e (the blow painting) technique that creates a gradient effect, render the piece a poetic quality, calling to mind the woodblock prints of the same subject made by Ohara Koson (1877-1945).
Two gilt bands on the neck and base showcases fine scrolling vine design. On the neck, an array of floral mons line on the black background. The flared mouth rim was further decorated in black vines. On the body toward the base, the vase is signed "Made by Kinkozan, Great Nippon".