Imperial Purveyor Fukagawa Seiji Arita Ware Celadon Gold Gilt Hibiscus Vase with Box

Maker / Brand: Fukagawa Seiji Title of Work: Purveyor to the Imperial Household Agency Fukagawa Seiji Aritayaki Polychrome Celadon with Gold Decoration Hibiscus Motif Vase, with Presentation Box

This exquisite Aritayaki vase by Fukagawa Seiji, a revered purveyor to the Imperial Household Agency, showcases the timeless beauty of celadon porcelain. Adorned with a delicate hibiscus motif and finished with elegant gold detailing, it is a example to the maker's renowned craftsmanship and refined aesthetic. The vase comes complete with its original presentation box.

Artistic & Cultural Background Aritayaki, originating from Arita in Saga Prefecture, is one of Japan's most celebrated porcelain traditions, dating back to the early 17th century. Fukagawa Seiji, established in 1894, is a distinguished Arita kiln known for its exceptional quality and innovative designs, earning its prestigious designation as a purveyor to the Imperial Household Agency. Celadon, a glaze technique with roots in ancient China, is prized for its striking jade-like hues and profound depth.

Design & Technique The vase features a lustrous celadon glaze, achieved by firing iron-rich glaze in a reducing atmosphere, which develops its characteristic blue-green color. A subtle hibiscus (fuyou) motif is delicately rendered beneath the glaze, creating a graceful, ethereal effect. The mouth of the vase is elegantly finished with a fine line of kinsai (gold decoration), adding a touch of sophisticated brilliance. The base bears the distinctive Fukagawa Seiji "Mount Fuji" mark.

Form & Aesthetic Qualities * Elegant Form: A classic, rounded silhouette with a graceful neck, designed to beautifully showcase floral arrangements. * Luminous Glaze: The celadon glaze possesses a striking depth, shifting from a serene sky blue to an enchanting emerald green depending on the light. * Subtle Detailing: The understated hibiscus motif and the refined gold rim create a harmonious balance of natural beauty and luxurious accent.

Collector & Decorative Appeal * Imperial Pedigree: As a piece from Fukagawa Seiji, a purveyor to the Imperial Household Agency, this vase carries significant prestige and historical value. * Versatile Elegance: Its timeless design and serene color palette make it a perfect addition to both traditional Japanese interiors and contemporary decor. * Artistic Craftsmanship: A prime example of Aritayaki's mastery in celadon production, offering a unique interplay of light and color that is truly mesmerizing.

This vase is an ideal acquisition for collectors of fine Japanese porcelain and those seeking a statement piece that embodies refined artistry and cultural heritage. Dimensions: Diameter 22cm, Height 20cm, Mouth Diameter 9.5cm (approximate measurements). Condition: This item is new and unused but has been stored at home. The original wooden presentation box shows some slight dirt, but the vase itself is in clean condition.

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