203 - † KINZAN: A FINE SATSUMA CERAMIC ‘SWIRLING AUTUMNAL BLOSSOMS’ BOWL

† KINZAN: A FINE SATSUMA CERAMIC ‘SWIRLING AUTUMNAL BLOSSOMS’ BOWL By Kinzan, signed Kinzan Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Finely potted with shallow rounded sides, a short square-section foot, and a subtly incurved rim. Painted in polychrome enamels and gilding over a finely crackled glaze, the interior decorated with swirling bands of colorful chrysanthemums and red maple leaves, spiraling toward a monumental stylized blossom. The exterior with alternating gilt-framed panels depicting boys engaged in festive activities, possibly alluding to the autumn Shichi-Go-San celebration, reserved against geometric and floral patterns, framed by a leaf-shaped lappet band below and a key-fret border above. The underside signed KINZAN in gilt. DIAMETER 11.1 cm Condition: Excellent condition with no visible damages or signs of restoration (checked under UV light). With minor wear and expected rubbing to gilding and overglaze pigments. The signature slightly rubbed. The remarkable swirling composition ingeniously transforms two quintessential symbols of autumn, chrysanthemums and reddening maple leaves, into an immense stylized blossom, the individual floral bands converging in a dynamic, almost hypnotic design. The lively scenes of boys celebrating on the exterior provide a charming contrast to the autumnal imagery, combining seasonal symbolism with the playful spirit of childhood. Auction comparison: Compare a closely related Satsuma ceramic bowl, by Kinzan, dated to the Meiji period, 13.3 cm diameter, at Sotheby’s, Japanese and Korean Works of Art, 14 July 2005, London, lot 970 (sold for GBP 4,200 or approx. EUR 9,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing). Compare a closely related Satsuma ceramic bowl, the interior decorated with similarly swirling rows of floral clusters, signed Shizan, dated to the Meiji period, 12.5 cm diameter, at Christie’s, Japanese Ceramics and Works of Art, 8 November 2008, London, lot 73 (sold for GBP 3,250 or approx. EUR 6,500 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.