A SATSUMA SQUARE-SECTION VASE, Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

h cm 31

Square in section, with a black ground and gilded decorations, the body features two large rectangular panels, each containing a scene: one depicts ladies in a landscape, the other a naturalistic setting with a cherry tree and sparrows. The remaining two sides, on a black ground with gilded ornamentation, display foliate motifs and butterflies, enriched with three panels featuring figures and floral designs. Signed Ryozan, with the mark of the Yasuda Company and the Shimazu family seal.