Japanese Satsuma Vase

The image shows a Japanese Satsuma vase, a type of earthenware pottery known for its fine crackled glaze and hand-painted decorations. Satsuma ware originated in the Satsuma Province of southern Kyūshū, Japan, around 1600. The style became very popular for export to Western markets in the 19th century, particularly during the Meiji period (1868-1912). The vase features a cream-colored body with a gold crackle glaze and detailed scenes of painted figures. The figures are often depicted in traditional Japanese clothing and are sometimes raised from the surface of the vase, a technique known as moriage. Despite being repaired at the base, I have been told that the piece does have added value since it bears both the Imperial 16 petal Kiku mon, and the 5-7-5 Kiri mon indicating it was made at the behest of the Imperial Family or the Japanese government, possibly as a gift for visiting dignitaries.