Large Japanese Satsuma Style Floor Vase with Moriage and Gilt Dragon Handles
Unbranded (Likely 20th Century Chinese Export in Satsuma Style) · Art & Decor > Vases & Vessels
Era / Decade
Late 20th Century (1970s-1990s). The high-gloss finish and vibrant, uniform color palette suggest a modern decorative import rather than a 19th-century Meiji-era antique.
Material
Porcelain or heavy earthenware with moriage (raised enamel) detailing, transfer-applied decals with hand-painted accents, and faux-gold (gilt) glaze handles.
Condition
Very Good. The vase appears structurally sound with no visible cracks or repairs. There is evidence of minor gilt loss on the dragon handles and light shelf wear on the base.
Demand Level
Moderate. Large decor pieces are currently popular for 'Grandmillennial' and 'Eclectic' interior design styles, though size makes shipping difficult for most buyers.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$150.00 - $350.00 (Low: $150 for quick local sale; Mid: $225; High: $350 for exceptional local demand)
Estimated Retail Value
$300.00 - $500.00 (based on modern boutique home decor prices for large-scale imports)
Comparable Sales
Similar large-scale export vases (3-4 feet) generally close at local estate auctions for $100-$200, while specialized vintage resellers on platforms like 1stDibs or Chairish list them for $600+, but actual sell-through on Marketplace is $200-$250.
Description
Stunning and monumental floor vase standing approximately 36-42 inches tall. This Satsuma-style piece features traditional Japanese motifs including Geishas in a garden setting, floral borders, and intricate geometric patterns. The neck is adorned with two ornate golden dragon handles and a ruffled, scalloped rim. Rich colors include emerald green, crimson red, and cobalt blue, all highlighted by raised enamel moriage textures and gold gilt accents throughout.
Key Features
Large scale (floor length), highly decorative 'maximalist' aesthetic, popular Geisha and Dragon motifs, raised enamel texture, scalloped rim.
Authenticity Indicators
Likely a high-quality reproduction (Confidence: High). Authentic 19th-century Satsuma typically has a cream-colored finely-crazed matte glaze; this piece's high shine and bright white interior indicate modern mass-production for the export market.
Flaws to Note
Fading of gold leaf on handles (common with age/handling), possible crazing in the clear glaze (typical of earthenware), and significant dust in crevices. No major chips visible.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local estate auctions are best to avoid the high risk and cost of shipping a fragile 3-foot porcelain item. Etsy or eBay (Local Pickup Only) are secondary options.
Selling Tips
Highlight the height in the title (e.g., 'HUGE 36-INCH FLOOR VASE'). Take photos against a plain wall to show scale. Clean with a soft, damp cloth only—do not use abrasives on the gold. Offer local delivery for an extra fee to increase your buyer pool.