210 - † KINKOZAN: A RARE AND FINE SATSUMA CERAMIC ‘ROOSTERS AND HENS AMONG BAMBOO GROVES’ CONICAL VASE

† KINKOZAN: A RARE AND FINE SATSUMA CERAMIC ‘ROOSTERS AND HENS AMONG BAMBOO GROVES’ CONICAL VASE By the Kinkozan company, signed and sealed Kinkozan zo Japan, late 19th-early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Exceptionally potted in a rare, elongated truncated-conical form, the broad, flat base rising in gently tapering sides to a slightly everted circular mouth. The exterior exquisitely painted in vivid polychrome enamels and gilt over a finely crackled glaze, depicting a lively group of cockerels and hens amid towering bamboo groves, the birds meticulously rendered with richly variegated plumage and bright red combs, surrounded by slender bamboo stalks rising to dense clusters of finely delineated leaves. The scene is set against a subtly graduated ground, transitioning from a pale cream tone above to richly stippled gold below. The mouth is encircled by an intricate gilt brocade border incorporating stylized hollyhock leaves and shippo motifs, while the foot is framed by a finely patterned geometric band. The underside bears the gilt signature and impressed seal KINKOZAN zo [made by Kinkozan]. HEIGHT 29.4 cm Condition: Very good condition with no visible damage or signs of restoration (checked under UV light). Minor typical wear to gilding. A few very fine non-distracting hairlines to the body. The Kinkozan company was among the foremost producers of Kyo-Satsuma (Kyoto Satsuma) wares, renowned for their exceptionally fine painting, sophisticated compositions, and lavish gilding. The flourishing Western demand for Japanese decorative arts during the Meiji period, particularly following the Paris Exposition of 1867, contributed greatly to the workshop's international success. Particularly noteworthy is the present vase's unusually tall, tapering conical form, a rare departure from the more conventional baluster and ovoid shapes associated with Kinkozan production. Its elegant, architectural silhouette provides an ideal setting for the beautifully composed bamboo grove and animated birds. Auction comparison: Compare a closely related Satsuma ceramic vase, similarly decorated with numerous cockerels and hens against a speckled gilt ground, signed Kinkozan, dated to the late 19th century, 31.2 cm high, at Christie’s, The Avo Krikorian Collection: Innovation and Inspiration of Meiji Period Design, 19 February 2007, Zurich, lot 12 (sold for CHF 16,800 or approx. EUR 20,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing). 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.