Pair of Japanese Soko China Satsuma Vases with Pheasants

A striking pair of vintage Japanese Satsuma-style earthenware vases, marked Soko China and likely dating to the early Showa period, circa 1930s.

Each vase is beautifully decorated by hand with an autumnal scene of pheasants among Japanese maple branches, flowering plants and delicately layered foliage. The warm palette of rust red, soft green, cream and gold is complemented by finely raised gilt detailing and traditional red-and-gold borders around the neck and base.

The two vases form an elegant matching pair, with closely related scenes that display beautifully together. Their softly crackled glaze, detailed bird decoration and rich autumn colours give them a refined decorative presence without overwhelming the graceful shape of the vessels.

Details

Item: Pair of vintage Japanese decorative vases

Origin: Japan

Date / Period: Early Showa period, likely c.1930s

Maker / Mark: Soko China, associated with 湊光 Minato Hikari / Hikaru

Material: Satsuma-style earthenware ceramic with crackle glaze, overglaze enamel and raised gilt decoration

Decoration: Hand-painted pheasants, Japanese maple branches, autumn leaves, flowering plants and gilt borders

Height: 18 cm each

Condition

Very good vintage condition overall. One vase has a small area of gilt wear and surface damage to the base, as shown in the photographs. This is not visible when the vase is displayed upright. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Satsuma ware has a distinctive place in the history of Japanese decorative ceramics. Originating in southern Japan, it gained international recognition during the 19th century and became particularly admired in the West after Japanese ceramics were prominently displayed at the 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris.

As international demand grew, workshops across Japan developed richly decorated Satsuma-style export wares with finely crackled glazes, overglaze enamels and gilt details. Birds, flowers and seasonal landscapes became especially popular subjects, offering overseas collectors an evocative image of Japanese nature and design.

The Soko China mark is associated with the Japanese name 湊光, read as Minato Hikari or Hikaru, and is found on early Showa period export ceramics. The use of the word “China” reflects the Westernised trade name rather than the material: these vases are ceramic earthenware in the Satsuma-style tradition.

This matching pair is particularly appealing for its pheasant and maple-leaf decoration, balanced autumn palette and elegant presentation. The vases would make a distinctive addition to a collection of Japanese ceramics or a beautifully coordinated decorative feature for an interior.

Please Note

All items are vintage or antique and may show light signs of age. Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.