Japanese Gosu Blue Satsuma Vase with Rakan Figures, Meiji Period

Jacksons Antique are pleased to offer this good sized Japanese Gosu Blue Satsuma Vase 薩摩. The vase is potted in earthenware with a wide body and short neck, decorated in deep gosu blue and polychrome enamels with gilt details.

The rim is painted with a border of lappets featuring stylised foliage and paulownia flowers, while the base is banded with a linked cash (shippo-tsunagi) motif. Around the body, a continuous scene depicts five Rakan (羅漢, also known as Arhats), Buddhist disciples revered for their wisdom.

One figure is seated on a bamboo chair holding prayer beads, distinguished by long flowing eyebrows. Another wears a dragon-patterned robe and reads a scroll, while a third leans on a bamboo staff beside a child assistant. The final figure raises his hand aloft, performing a ritual with a dragon emerging at his feet. The scene is finely painted with expressive features and rich colours, bringing depth and narrative to the composition.

The base is signed 薩摩 (Satsuma) and the vase dates to the early Meiji Period (1868–1912), circa 1880. A striking and good example of Gosu Blue Satsuma with figural subject matter of Buddhist importance.

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Condition 

Very Good, minor rubbing most notable to the hand of the raised Rakan.

Please be aware all the items we sell are not new. They are either vintage or antique meaning they are used and bear qualities of being handled or used for many years. This typically will mean that the objects will have surface marks or wear consistent with long term use. 

Measurements

38cm High x 22cm Diameter (15 x 8.66 Inches) 

Please buy with confidence, we have been in the business for over 10 years and have recently decided to pursue ebay due to the volume of stock we hold. We sell regularly aboard and double box all relevant parcels for safety.

We typically ship with Royal Mail or UPS. 

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