Early 20th-Century Japanese Satsuma-Style Moriage Moon Basket Vase with Samurai and Figural Decoration

A striking early 20th-century Japanese Satsuma-style moriage moon basket vase, richly decorated with hand-painted figural scenes, floral motifs and raised enamel detailing. The unusual circular form is defined by a large crescent-shaped opening and supported by four small feet, giving the piece a distinctive sculptural presence.

One side features a dynamic samurai scene with finely detailed armour, expressive figures and layered decorative accents. The reverse is decorated with a seated figure surrounded by colourful flowers and stylised foliage. Raised moriage work, delicate gilt outlines and a varied palette of muted pink, blue, green, cream and deep red add texture and depth across the surface.

Measuring approximately 28 cm high and 23 cm wide, the vase has an impressive display size while remaining suitable for a cabinet, console table or curated collection of Japanese decorative ceramics.

Details

Item: Japanese Satsuma-style moriage moon basket vase
Origin: Japan
Date / Period: Early 20th century
Material: Glazed ceramic
Style: Satsuma-style export ware
Decoration: Hand-painted samurai and figural scenes with floral motifs, raised moriage enamel and gilt accents
Form: Circular moon basket vase with crescent-shaped opening and four small feet
Height: Approx. 28 cm
Width: Approx. 23 cm
Condition: Very good antique condition with no chips or cracks. Some natural wear to the glaze and base is present, consistent with age. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Satsuma-style ceramics became especially popular with international collectors during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Japanese workshops produced decorative export wares featuring crackled glazes, richly painted figural scenes, floral ornament, raised enamel work and gilt detailing.

The term Satsuma gradually came to describe a broader decorative style rather than pottery from a single region or workshop. Export pieces varied considerably in quality and were often designed to appeal to Western collectors seeking highly ornamented Japanese decorative objects.

This moon basket vase is particularly appealing for its unusual crescent-shaped form, substantial display size and richly layered decoration. The combination of samurai imagery, floral motifs, moriage detailing and four-footed construction gives it a distinctive character within the broader tradition of Japanese Satsuma-style export ceramics.

No clearly identifiable maker’s mark is visible in the available photographs, so the vase has been described conservatively without attribution to a specific workshop or artist.

Please review the photographs carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.