Antique Japanese Kutani Porcelain Censer by Matsubara, Painted by Meizan

An antique Japanese Kutani porcelain censer, made by Matsubara and painted by Meizan, with richly detailed figural, floral and phoenix decoration in iron red, enamel and gilt accents. This tripod-footed incense burner reflects the ornate decorative style associated with early 20th-century Kutani ware and has strong collector appeal for its signed base, balanced form and finely executed hand-painted detail.

The censer is decorated on one side with a detailed figural scene and on the other with a phoenix among chrysanthemums. The surface is further enhanced with raised decorative accents and extensive gilding, giving the piece depth and a refined ornamental character. Twin upright handles and three shaped feet complete the traditional form.

The base is signed 松原製 明山画, reading “Made by Matsubara, Painted by Meizan.” This signed workshop and artist attribution adds further interest for collectors of Japanese Kutani porcelain, Meiji and early Showa ceramics, and hand-painted Japanese decorative objects.

Details:

• Item: Antique Japanese porcelain censer / incense burner
• Maker: Matsubara
• Artist: Meizan (明山)
• Origin: Japan
• Ware: Kutani porcelain
• Date / Period: Late Meiji to early Showa period, circa 1900–1930s
• Material: Porcelain with hand-painted enamel and gilt decoration
• Marks / Signature: 松原製 明山画 — “Made by Matsubara, Painted by Meizan”
• Decoration: Figural scene, phoenix, chrysanthemums, floral motifs, raised decorative accents and gilding
• Features: Tripod feet and twin upright handles
• Height: 13 cm
• Condition: Excellent antique condition with no chips, cracks or repairs observed

Condition:

Excellent antique condition overall, with light age-related wear consistent with a piece of this period. No chips, cracks or repairs have been observed. The hand-painted decoration, gilt accents and raised detail present beautifully. Please review the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.

Kutani ware is known for richly decorated porcelain, particularly pieces featuring detailed figural scenes, floral motifs and extensive gilding. Signed incense burners and decorative vessels from the late Meiji to early Showa period remain desirable among collectors for their craftsmanship, cultural character and distinctive Japanese design.

This antique Matsubara Kutani censer painted by Meizan would suit collectors of Japanese porcelain, Kutani ware, Meiji period ceramics, early Showa decorative pieces and signed Japanese antiques.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. We are happy to provide further details or images on request.