Vintage Japanese Kutani-Style Porcelain Hyotan Double-Gourd Vase, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-737

Vintage Japanese Kutani-Style Porcelain Hyotan Double-Gourd Vase, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-737

A boldly decorated kutani-style porcelain vase in the classic hyotan double-gourd form, presented with its original wooden storage box.

A hyotan, or double-gourd vase, is one of the most auspicious forms in East Asian ceramic art -- its pinched waist joining two spherical chambers to evoke the shape of the wild gourd, long associated with longevity, good fortune, and spiritual protection. This vintage Japanese porcelain example is rendered in a vivid kutani-style palette of iron red, celadon green, gold, and soft cream white. The upper globe features a central medallion bearing a gilded "kotobuki" (longevity) character set against a rich vermilion ground, surrounded by a finely detailed lattice diaper pattern and cloud scroll borders. The lower, larger globe repeats the medallion motif with a gilded chrysanthemum or floral arabesque at center, framed by the same intricate ground. Separating the two chambers is a band of dense gold-on-red scrollwork, while horizontal borders of lotus-petal and Greek-key fret ornament reinforce the ceremonial character of the piece. Every surface is covered with meticulous hand-applied decoration consistent with high-quality Japanese ceramic craft of the Late Showa period. The vase comes with a fitted hinoki (cypress) wood storage box -- a hallmark of a piece intended as a treasured gift or keepsake.

In a modern home this striking vase makes an immediate statement as a living room accent or entryway focal point. Its vivid red-and-gold colorway pairs beautifully with Japandi style interiors, adding warmth and visual drama to a minimalist shelf or console. Displayed upright on a mantel, sideboard, or tokonoma-inspired alcove, it holds cut branches or dried botanicals with equal elegance. Its compact proportions and ornate surface decoration also make it a standout piece for a curated collector's display alongside other vintage Japanese ceramics. This vase is a unique housewarming gift or a memorable gift for Japanophiles and collectors of Japanese vintage art.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Porcelain with iron red, celadon green, and gold overglaze enamels; hinoki (cypress) wood storage box
• Use: Decorative vase; ceremonial or gift presentation piece
• Modern Use: Living room accent or mantel display piece; entryway decorative vase with dried botanicals or cut branches; centerpiece in a curated Japanese ceramics collection
• Features: Classic hyotan double-gourd form; vivid kutani-style iron red ground with celadon green, gold, and cream white decoration; gilded "kotobuki" longevity character medallions on both globes; intricate lattice diaper ground pattern across entire surface; gold scrollwork and floral arabesque medallions; lotus-petal and Greek-key fret border bands; gold-rimmed mouth; presented with fitted wood storage box
• Dimensions: 5" Diameter x 10"H
• Condition: Excellent

A vibrant piece of vintage Japanese ceramic art -- rich in auspicious symbolism and handcrafted detail -- that brings lasting warmth and cultural elegance to any modern interior.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.