Japanese Satsuma Black-Ground Vase Lamp — Kannon & Dragon, Meiji Period

 An antique Japanese Satsuma-style earthenware vase, consistent with Meiji period production (late 19th to early 20th century), subsequently converted to a table lamp. The ovoid body is finished in a deep matte black ground — a less common ground color in Satsuma ware associated with export production of the period — and decorated throughout with fine hand-painted and fired gilt. The primary face depicts Kannon, the Buddhist bodhisattva of compassion, haloed and robed in ornate lattice-pattern garments, accompanied by a dragon amid auspicious clouds; the reverse shows a phoenix in flight against a field of stippled gold dots. Engraved gilt scroll borders frame both shoulder and foot, and the neck carries a geometric wave register typical of the period — all original to the vase.

The vase has been fitted with brass lamp hardware and seated on a turned walnut base; the cream silk bell shade with amber and crystal teardrop bead fringe is contemporary.

CONDITION Good; lamp is fully functional and tested, with the original gilt decoration retaining strong coverage and sharp figural detail. Minor surface abrasion to the black ground near the upper shoulder on the phoenix side, and light scuffing to the walnut base.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Overall Height: 23"
• Diameter: 16"
• Vase Body: Hand-painted earthenware with fired gilt decoration
• Motifs: Kannon with dragon (primary face); phoenix in flight (reverse)
• Base: Turned walnut
• Fittings: Brass lamp hardware (conversion)
• Shade: Contemporary silk bell shade with amber and crystal beaded fringe
• Period: Meiji era, late 19th–early 20th century (vase)
• Campbell's Soup Can (4" H) Shown for Scale