Of elegant square-shouldered ovoid form, the vase is richly decorated in gilt overglaze enamels with a dynamic flock of cranes in flight, their wings picked out in finely textured gilt and rising among drifting clouds of dots.
The reverse bears a vertical gilt inscription Dai Nihon / Kyoto Kinkōzan zo above the red seal mark, set against a striking teal-blue and moss-green marbled ground, a characteristic experimental glaze associated with late Kinkōzan studio production.
The unusual square profile, marbled glaze, and restrained yet luxurious use of gold place this example within the more artistic, small-format wares produced for export collectors at the end of the 19th century.
Height: 12.7 cm
Width: approx. 7.6 cm
Condition: Excellent, no damage or restoration observed.
