Exceptional Meiji Kutani Vase Depicting an Imperial Court Procession.Meiji period

A finely painted Kutani vase of elegant baluster form, decorated with an animated court procession of ladies carrying a palanquin through a riverside landscape. The figures are rendered in soft enamel tones of turquoise, lilac, iron red, and aubergine, set against a beautifully restrained background in delicate grisaille washes depicting pines, water, and distant dwellings.

The composition shows a rare sense of movement and narrative rhythm, the procession winding naturally around the body of the vase, creating a continuous storytelling scene rather than framed panels. Above, the shoulder is richly adorned with a brocade-style collar in thick gold enamelling, formed of stylised floral roundels and scrolling foliage — a hallmark of high-quality Kutani work from the late 19th century.

The contrast between the calm, almost misty landscape and the lively, colourful procession is particularly refined and gives the piece strong visual presence without overwhelming the eye.

The base bears a red Kutani mark.

Size: H 30 cm

Condition: Good condition.