Two Traditional Imari Vases

This striking pair of antique Japanese Imari porcelain vases dates to the late Meiji period (circa 1890–1900) and beautifully showcases the traditional craftsmanship. Designed in an elegant fluted or ribbed baluster form with distinct scalloped rims, the vases feature the classic three-colour Imari palette consisting of rich underglaze cobalt blue, vibrant overglaze iron-red enamels, and delicate hand-gilded gold accents. The asymmetric, hand-painted panels are thoughtfully designed in their own pattern, with one vase depicting a serene architectural pagoda nestled beneath dense pine and plum blossom branches, while its companion highlights a formal Ikebana floral arrangement blooming out of a stylized basket alongside seasonal autumn chrysanthemums. True to late 19th-century export wares intended for Western markets, both pieces feature completely unmarked, unglazed bases. While one vase remains in pristine antique condition, the other displays a prominent, historical V-shaped chip along its top rim; however, because the break is structurally stable and free of radiating hairline fractures, they still retain significant decorative presence and present beautifully as a matching pair when displayed.