Japanese Satsuma Moon Flasque Vase Adorned with Samurai & Courtesans by Marked with Shimazu Family Crest

Courtesans and samurai gather on a golden moon.

Japanese artists painted this Satsuma moon flask in porcelain in the 19th century. Satsuma ware, with its fine crackled glaze and rich gilding, was commonly made for display and for export. The flat, round body has a scene of samurai and women in layered robes gathered around a screen, painted in orange, red and green. A gold sunburst medallion ornaments the narrow neck, and a gilded foot supports the vase. Tiny brushed details fill the faces and fabrics.

About five inches tall. A whole party in the palm of your hand.