Pair of Japanese Satsuma Style Moriage Vases

A matching pair of vintage Japanese ceramic vases, likely dating from the mid-20th century, specifically the Showa era. These vases exhibit the classic traits of the Satsuma style, though they are likely 'Satsuma-style' earthenware rather than 19th-century Kyo-yaki. Each vase features a deep cobalt blue glaze on the neck and foot, contrasted by a central decorative band rendered in rich earth tones and vibrant primary colors. The central motif depicts traditional Japanese figures, possibly Immortals or Arhats, executed with heavy 'moriage' (raised slip) technique which provides a distinct three-dimensional texture to the robes and halos. Gold gilding is used sparingly to outline the figures and provide decorative accents along the rim and base. The construction is solid with a tapered ovoid body, narrow neck, and slightly flared rim. Regarding condition, there is visible minor wear to the gilding on the top rims and some general surface dust, but they appear free of major cracks or chips from this perspective. The craftsmanship shows mass-market production characteristics rather than fine-art studio quality, indicated by the thickness of the application and the standardized figure designs. These were popular export items intended for the Western decorative market.