Japanese export porcelain covered vase, c. 1885.
 
Dimensions: Approximately 19” tall.
 
Decoration: 
The vase and lid are decorated in an overall pattern of alternating blue and red vertical stripes. The blue stripes alternate between gilded geometric patterns and vines with flowers. The red stripes have gold vines and alternate between a hoo bird (Japanese phoenix) and a dragon.
 
Meiji period (1868 – 1912) polychrome Imari pieces were made predominantly for export as were the polychrome Imari pieces of the 18th century (“ko-Imari”). Production of the latter diminished mid-century as the style went out of fashion in Europe.
 
However, due to the interest in Japanese ceramics spurred by international exhibitions in the 1860’s and 1870’s, polychrome Imari ceramics again became fashionable in Europe as well as the United States and remained so throughout the 19th century. 
 
Meiji examples can use a broader range of colors, reflecting the development of new enamels, as well as modified or new shapes that appealed to Western tastes of the time.
 
While not referred to as such, I consider these ceramics to be “Imari revival”.
 
References:
Gansu Provincial Museum ed., in “Imari, Japanese Porcelain of the Edo Period Exported to Europe”.
Jahn, “Meiji Ceramics”.
P.L.J. Arts, “Japanese Porcelain”.
Shimura, “The History of Imari, The Symbols and Mysteries of Antique Japanese Porcelain”.
New Orleans Museum of Art, “Imari, Japanese Porcelain for European Palaces”.
The Kyushu Ceramic Museum, “Complete Catalog of Shibata Collection”.
 
Condition: Restored chip on lid rim, small spot of inpainting on the body, minor glaze imperfections, and minor loss of enamel and gilding; otherwise in excellent condition consistent with age and usage. Please examine the photos; they are part of the description.

Please Note: This is a large and heavy item to ship.