A Large Celadon Phoenix vase by First Generation Suwa Sozan (1851-1922
- Artist:
- First Generation Suwa Sozan (1851-1922
- Era:
- Meiji
- Price:
- $3,500
- Inquire:
- Contact gallery
- Similar artwork:
- Looking for something similar?
A rare and interesting offering, here we have an exquisite celadon phoenix vase with Chinese form and patterning. First generation Sozan gained wide acclaim in the Meiji period primarily for his faithful recreations of Southern Song Dynasty celadons that incorporated a luminous “kinuta” glaze. While you occasionally find the smaller version of this vase in the 18cm - 23cm height range, I have only seen one or two examples of this larger size in the many years I have been sourcing first generation Sozan pieces. A solid addition to any collection of Meiji porcelains or Chinese inspired celadons.
Suwa Sozan I (1852-1922) was born in an area of what is known today as Ishikawa prefecture. After a short stint in the military he took up pottery design and painting under Touda Tokuji in 1873. From this point forward, he divided his time mainly between Kanazawa and Tokyo working at a number of kilns and research institutes. While in Tokyo, he made the acquaintance of famed conservator of Japanese art Ernest Francisco Fenollosa and the two became fast friends. In 1900 Sozan was invited to Kyoto to work at the Kinkozan kiln where he became noticed for his great skill in creating fine porcelain and celadon works. Several years later in 1907, he set up an independent porcelain and ceramics kiln on Gojo-zaka in Kyoto where he specialized in making a variety of porcelain pieces, most noted of which were his fine powdery-blue celadon pieces modeled after classic Chinese forms as well as detailed porcelain statuettes. In 1917, Sozan was awarded the title of Teishitsu Gigei-in or Imperial Court Artist” -- what could be considered a precursor to the modern day "Ningen Kokuho" or National Living Treasure.
In perfect antique condition, this piece is 5.5 inches wide (14cm) and stands 12.2 inches tall (31cm). It comes with its original box signed and sealed by first generation Sozan and carries his oval seal on the base. *** International shipping and insurance is included in the price.
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