Antique Japanese Sumida Gawa Glazed Ceramic Basket Vase w/ Figures Inoue Ryosai (c.1900) LS#052

Antique Japanese Sumida Gawa Basket Vase with Figures, Attributed to Inoue Ryosai (c. 1890–1920)

An unusual Sumida Gawa basket vase with a tall arched handle, scalloped rims front and back, and multiple high-relief figures. The front scene features a man walking across a vivid red plank above another figure seated below. On the reverse, a single man peers over the back rim, adding a playful narrative detail. The handle and upper body are decorated with a flowing drip glaze of ebony, brown, and white, continuing onto the scalloped edges. A porcelain plaque with Japanese characters is affixed to the back.

Sumida Gawa ware, named for the Sumida River district of Tokyo, developed in the late 19th century as a dynamic, sculptural ceramic style aimed at export markets. Known for its applied figures, bold color contrasts, and narrative scenes, the style evolved from Kyoto’s Awata ware traditions and became a hallmark of late Meiji to Taisho era Japanese ceramics. This piece, attributed to Inoue Ryosai, is further distinguished by its provenance: formerly in the collection of the Saul Brandman Foundation, Beverly Hills, California.

Dimensions: 8.5 × 7.75 × 2.75 in.