YABU MEIZAN: A RARE SATSUMA CERAMIC BOWL DEPICTING MONKEYS By Yabu Meizan (1853-1934), signed Yabu Meizan Japan, late 19th to early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Finely formed, supported on a square foot, the sides gradually rounding, finely painted in polychrome enamels and gilt. The interior depicting a band of monkeys, some playing with one another, other pillaging a large basket laden with fruit, and others engaging in scholarly pursuits, all enclosed within wisteria branches suspending their blossoms. The exterior painted with fine floral blossoms. Signed to the base within a gilt reserve YABU MEIZAN. DIAMETER 13.2 cm Condition: Excellent condition with only very minor wear and rubbing to gilt. Yabu Meizan (1853-1934) was a Japanese artist and workshop owner known for painting on porcelain. His studio produced high-end Satsuma ware and he was one of the artists who continued the tradition of high artistic quality while also successfully exporting. Meizan actively marketed his work internationally as well as domestically, taking an active role in organizing the presentation of Japanese wares at world fairs. The present motif is rare for this maker. Auction comparison: Compare a related satsuma bowl by the same artist depicting a banquet scene, signed Yabu Meizan, 15.6 cm in diameter, at Christie’s, Japanese Art Including Property of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, 28 March 2006, New York, lot 414 (sold for USD 12,600).