Circa 1900 Japanese Kaga Kutani Vase by Watano Kichiji

Circa 1900 Kaga Kutani Vase by Watano, Japanese. This splendidly decorated vase features a scene which is possibly from the Japanese fairy tale when Urashima Taro’s visit to the Dragon Palace Under the Sea. Made by Watano and painted by Yamagami Sakichi (base insciption). After 1887 when Watano Kichiji set up his kiln & invited Yamagami to join him. The polychrome & gilt shoulder & base rim are astonishing. Exquisite painting surrounds the vase, the sea foam enamelled. Note the careful decoratio of the foo lion. Provenance: renowned ichthyologist Dr. Hugh McCormick Smith.
5 3/8″ over handles x 4.25″ x 7 1/4″ h.