215 - KINKOZAN: A MASSIVE (47.5 CM) AND FINE SATSUMA CERAMIC ‘GYORAN KANNON RIDING A CARP WITH RAKAN’ CHARGER

KINKOZAN: A MASSIVE (47.5 CM) AND FINE SATSUMA CERAMIC ‘GYORAN KANNON RIDING A CARP WITH RAKAN’ CHARGER By the Kinkozan company, signed Dai Nippon Kyoto Kinkozan seizo Japan, early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Of circular form, with shallow, gently rounded sides supported on a short, straight foot. The interior exquisitely decorated in luminous polychrome enamels and lavish gilding over a clear, finely crackled glaze, depicting an elaborate celestial scene centered on Gyoran Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion, seated astride a magnificent carp soaring amid billowing gilt clouds. The deity is richly adorned in intricately patterned robes and elaborate jewelry, her serene face framed by a magnificent beaded aureole from which golden rays radiate across the composition. Flanking Kannon are two fierce-looking rakan, both with elaborate gilt halos, the figure to the left with his emaciated torso exposed, raising an ornate ritual vessel aloft, a sinuous dragon coiling beneath him, while the figure to the right is seated holding a slender staff. The celestial assembly is completed by richly attired attendants, a youthful Buddhist acolyte, and a further haloed figure hovering among the clouds. The entire composition is enlivened by extensive gilding worked in delicate relief, contrasting the finely detailed robes and animated expressions with the powerful movement of the carp and dragon. The rim is framed by shaped panels enclosing floral motifs and intricate geometric diaper patterns above a key-fret border. The underside bears the inscription Dai Nippon Kyoto Kinkozan seizo [Made by Kinkozan, Kyoto, Great Japan]. HEIGHT 7.8 cm, DIAMETER 47.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear and expected light rubbing to the gilding. No visible damage or signs of restoration under UV light. Gyoran Kannon, or ‘Fish-Basket Kannon’, is one of the thirty-three traditional manifestations of Kannon Bosatsu (Avalokiteshvara), the bodhisattva of compassion. According to a Chinese Buddhist legend, Kannon appeared as a beautiful fish seller who encouraged her many suitors to memorize Buddhist sutras, thereby spreading the teachings of Buddhism. Although traditionally depicted carrying a basket of fish, Gyoran Kannon is also represented riding a giant carp, a manifestation particularly associated with the protection of fishermen and seafarers. The present composition is especially striking for the contrast between Kannon's perfect serenity and the extraordinary energy of the surrounding figures, the powerful carp, and the writhing dragon. The juxtaposition of carp and dragon may further evoke the celebrated Chinese legend of a carp transforming into a dragon after ascending the Dragon Gate, symbolizing perseverance and spiritual transformation. The unusual iconography was famously explored by Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849) in his Hokusai Manga, volume 13, published around 1849. The Kinkozan company was among the foremost producers of Kyoto Satsuma (Kyo-Satsuma) ceramics during the Meiji period, renowned for its exceptional painting, elaborate compositions, and lavish use of gold. Such richly ornamented works were particularly admired by Western collectors during the height of Japonisme. Auction comparison: Compare a related Satsuma ceramic charger, painted by Sozan for the Kinkozan company, dated to the Meiji period and measuring a considerably smaller 39 cm in diameter, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 15 May 2014, London, lot 445 (sold for GBP 31,250 or approx. EUR 53,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing).