Enamel Decorated Vase Appraisal

Japanese Glazed and Enamel-Decorated Ceramic Vase

This is a ceramic art vase, likely of Japanese origin, possibly a Satsuma ware piece or in a similar style, exhibiting a prominent rich brown glaze on its body. The vase features a bulbous central body that tapers towards what appears to be a narrower neck and rim, though the very top is not fully visible. The primary decorative motif consists of raised, enamel-like floral patterns in vibrant blue, light blue, and pale green, outlined in a light, possibly gold or cream-colored, raised slip. The flowers are stylized, often depicted with multiple petals and leafy tendrils extending across the brown surface. The technique used for the decoration, where the colors are delineated by raised lines, is characteristic of moriage or raised enamel techniques found in Japanese ceramics. The base of the vase is unglazed, revealing the natural reddish-brown color of the ceramic body, indicative of earthenware or stoneware. This unglazed foot rim is substantial and shows some wear and dirt accumulation, suggesting age and handling. There is a visible impressed mark on the bottom of the base, which appears to be a manufacturer's or artisan's mark, crucial for identifying its origin, maker, and potentially its precise age. While the mark is somewhat obscured by dirt and texture, it could be a kanji character or a symbol. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with attention to detail in the applied decoration. The glaze is glossy and intact across the decorated areas. There are no immediately obvious chips or cracks visible from the provided images, but the unglazed foot shows typical signs of wear from contact with surfaces. The robust potting and hand-decorated details suggest it is a studio piece or from a reputable pottery, potentially dating from the late 19th to early 20th century, a period known for export-oriented Japanese ceramics.