Vintage Japanese Satsuma Style Moriage Vase with Bijin Scene
Unbranded (likely Japanese export) · Art & Decor > Vases
Era / Decade
Late 20th Century (1970s-1990s)
Material
Crackle-glazed earthenware with raised 'moriage' enamel paint and gold gilt accents.
Condition
Good. There is visible wear to the gold gilding on the rim and prominent crazing throughout (which is characteristic of the style but can trap dust). No visible chips or cracks.
Demand Level
Moderate. Chinoiserie and Orientalist decor have a steady niche following, but the market is saturated with similar 20th-century export pieces.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25 - $45
Estimated Retail Value
$60 - $85 (Modern reproduction prices)
Comparable Sales
Similar 10-12 inch Japanese export vases typically sell on eBay for $20-$40 plus shipping. Pieces with specific maker marks or older provenance can reach $75+.
Description
A beautiful Japanese Satsuma-style porcelain vase featuring a traditional 'Bijin' (beautiful women) scene in a landscape. The vase is decorated with intricate moriage (raised enamel) details, floral borders, and gold-tone accents. The cream-colored base has a classic crackle glaze finish. Approximately 10-12 inches tall.
Key Features
Popular Orientalist aesthetic, raised moriage texture, intricate hand-painted appearance, and classic landscape/figurative subject matter.
Authenticity Indicators
Medium confidence. This is a decorative export piece, not an 19th-century antique. The bright, multi-colored palette and uniform crackle suggest a mid-to-late 20th-century mass-production for the Western market.
Flaws to Note
Loss of gold gilding on the top rim and base; heavy crazing in the glaze. Possible dust buildup in the texture.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay or Etsy for a wider audience; Facebook Marketplace for local buyers to avoid shipping risks given the fragility.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Satsuma style', 'Moriage', 'Kutani', and 'Chinoiserie'. Take close-up photos of the raised enamel texture and the bottom (to show any maker marks). Double-box this item for shipping to prevent breakage.