Antique Meiji Era Japanese Kyoto Satsuma Pottery Signed Studio Kinkozan Pitcher

Antique Meiji Era Japanese Kyoto Satsuma Pottery Signed Studio Kinkozan Pitcher Dimensions: 9.5"H x 6" diameter Rare antique Meiji-era Japanese Kyoto Satsuma pottery pitcher, attributed to the esteemed Kinkozan studio. This beautifully crafted piece exemplifies the refined artistry of late 19th-century Satsuma ware, featuring a richly detailed hand-painted design with elegant cranes in flight, delicate flora, and a vibrant bird among stylized greenery. The pitcher is also adorned with exquisite gilded accents, enhancing its elegance. It features a warm, finely crackled (crazed) glaze typical of Satsuma pottery. A highly decorative and collectible example of Meiji-period Satsuma ware, ideal for discerning collectors of Japanese ceramics or as a striking display piece. The Kinkozan family have been associated with pottery since 1645. They went on to become the largest producer of Satsuma ware, from the end of the 19th century until 1927 after which the factory closed. By the 1850s Kobayashi Sobei (1824-84), Kinkozan Sobei (artist name Kinkozan IV), started to export his products together with the Kyoto manufacturer Taizan VIII. The market was in particular America. Their main production period was approximately between 1(contact info removed) under the leadership of Kinkozan V (1(contact info removed)). Regarding styles, in her book Treasury of Satsuma, Sandra Andacht quotes a 19th century visitor to the Kinkozan factory, saying that the same glazed pots were decorated in two styles, the one being called Kyoto or Awata ware, and the other Satsuma. Condition: good for its age, though it does have a small chip on the lip, as shown in picture #7, some age-related discoloration, adding a sense of time-worn charm.