Antique Japanese Large Kutani Shishi Lidded Vase

This is a fabulously impressive Japanese Kutani vase and cover dating from the Meiji period. The vase cover has a wonderful 'Shishi' or lion finial and an inner cover to the substantial bowl. This large vase is extensively and intricately hand decorated with dragons and Ho'o birds in rich iron-red and gilding typical of Kutani pieces on a fine diaper ground. The base is impressed and has script marks. Condition is excellent to the vase and inner lid. There are some minor chips to the main lid and the Shishi lion has been professionally reattached with neat rivets to the underside. This stands 40 cms tall and is a real statement piece.