Two-Handled Lidded Urn with Landscape Vignette
Decorative art; porcelain/ceramic lidded vessel with pedestal base • Japanese export porcelain; likely Nippon or Noritake-era regional workshop
Style & Movement
Japanese Export Ware (Nippon style), incorporating Western neo-classical forms with traditional Japanese hand-painted decorative elements
Medium & Technique
Porcelain or earthenware with lime green glaze, hand-painted polychrome enamels, and raised slip decoration (moriage technique)
Creation Period
Circa 1920-1940 (Late Meiji to Early Showa era)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12-14 inches in height; vertical format with a square pedestal base
Subject Description
A classical amphora-style urn featuring a central reserve with a hand-painted landscape scene depicting trees and water at sunset. The body is decorated with raised white moriage scrollwork, stylized floral patterns on the lid, and geometric borders in orange, blue, and yellow.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible wear to the raised slip decoration and minor abrasions to the glaze
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$40 - $120 USD
Provenance History
Likely produced for the American or European export market during the early 20th century; typically sold through department stores or import shops
Art Historical Significance
Represents the height of the Japanese export porcelain industry designed to appeal to Western Victorian and Edwardian tastes, showcasing the 'moriage' technique which became a hallmark of Nippon-style ceramics.
Notable Features
Heavy use of the moriage (raised slip) technique; distinctive lime green ground color which is less common than typical cobalt or cream backgrounds; presence of a matching lid which increases collectible value.
Condition Issues
Significant loss of gilding or silver-toned paint on the raised scrollwork; possible crazing in the glaze; grime accumulation in the recessed areas; minor surface scratches
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a soft brush and distilled water; avoid abrasive chemicals or immersion; display in a stable environment away from direct vibration to prevent further loss of raised decoration.