Posted 9 years ago
Rach2202
(7 items)
I purchased this little vase as a part of a mixed lot of "Asian collectibles". I have been trying to learn anything possible about it because it is beautifully hand painted and seems to have some age to it. I can't find another quite like it and would be grateful for any information possible. I'd love to learn where it's from to begin. Thanks for your help!!!
The Japanese mark appears to be that of Satsuma with much of it missing. The top character would be a cross in circle, the crest of the Shimazu clan, which provides the identification. The two marks below would further identify the piece to a specific artist or kiln. This is probably a tokorri, intended for sake, which have a great variety of shapes and hold from four ounces on up. This is likely antique. Cheers, Val
Thank you so, SO very much!!! You have totally solved my little mystery piece!! I am THRILLED to finally know who made this lovely little vase or tokorri cup and where and when it was produced. I've wondered for so long now and in less than a day after posting its picture, I've got my answer. Thank you so much!!!!!
Sorry, I badly misspelled 'tokkuri'. This will provide more information: http://www.esake.com/Knowledge/TOKKURI/tokkuri.html
Well you aren't going to believe it, but because of your help I have identified the man who painted my little tokkuri! His name was Yabu Meizan and I found a tiny vase in a Christies of London catalog from 2012 almost identical to mine except for in size. I wasn't able to copy the link but if you google satsuma shimazu Yabu Meizan Christies 2012 you will see it for sure! It has to be the same artist. They look so similar it's crazy. Even the birds are the same. Thanks so much again!