Antique JAPANESE MORIAGE IRIS DOUBLE HANDLE VASE

Updated August 8, 2026

NO SHIPPING ~ LOCAL PICKUP ONLY > Despite repaired damage as noted in the condition report below, this remains a striking, notably large Japanese export porcelain vase standing 10" tall and measuring approximately 8" to 9" across the full rounded shoulders, exclusive of the extended handles, weighing an impressive 4-1/4 lbs. The substantial baluster form presents a broad rounded body, narrowed neck and flared mouth, with a pair of highly stylized open loop handles rising from the shoulders. The pale celadon green ground is decorated throughout with large pink and burgundy iris blossoms, unopened buds and elongated leaves rendered in contrasting dark green and pale blue green enamels. Raised white and brown slip decoration outlines the flowers, foliage, neck, base and handles, creating the beaded and textured surface commonly described as moriage. This Japanese decorative technique used built layers of slip or enamel to produce relief details upon porcelain made for Western export. The sweeping floral composition, curving handles and emphasis upon natural forms reflect the international Art Nouveau taste prevalent from the late 19th into the early 20th century. The Art Nouveau influenced iris decoration, pale green ground, raised moriage ornament, elaborate open handles and export porcelain form align with Japanese wares made for Western markets during the late Meiji and early Taisho periods, supporting a date of approximately 1905 to 1915. The handles are especially elaborate, each modeled as an asymmetrical curling foliate or tendril form ornamented with raised dots, scrolling brown lines and white beaded accents. Coordinating moriage borders encircle the flared neck and lower body. The painted iris decoration continues around the vase, with the separate views presenting differing blossoms, buds and foliage rather than a single repeated transfer design. No maker, importer or country of origin marks are present. The porcelain, moriage embellishment, palette and export form support Japanese production during the early 20th century, likely within the broad Nippon era tradition, although a specific factory cannot be established. CONDITION REPORT > One handle has been broken and repaired at two points, with visible fracture lines and associated restoration as shown. Otherwise, expect typical and minor elements relative to age, early manner of production and materials. As discovered, not cleaned or altered.

Register & bid on this lot at Bidspirit →

More lots in this auction

• SILVER GUILD ENGLAND GEORGIAN Plated SOUP LADLE
• 15" ROWOCO Commercial KITCHEN HARDWOOD ROLLING PIN
• 1800s ANTIQUE FIDDLEBACK COIN SILVER SOUP LADLE
• Vintage MIDDLE EASTERN PERSIAN BRASS AFTABA EWER
• WILLIAMSBURG STIEFF PEWTER 6 PINT WATER PITCHER
• 1976 MCCORMICK GEORGE WASHINGTON LIQUOR DECANTER
• SETH THOMAS Double Wind BRASS MARINE SHIPS CLOCK
• Vintage ANCHOR HOCKING CANFIELD CAKE STAND & COVER

See all lots in CENTREVILLE, MISSISSIPPI Van Cleave FAMILY LIVING ESTATE →