A LARGE SATSUMA CERAMIC ‘DRAGON-HEADED GOZABUNE’ KORO (INCENSE BURNER)

拍品描述

A LARGE SATSUMA CERAMIC ‘DRAGON-HEADED GOZABUNE’ KORO (INCENSE BURNER) Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Expertly modeled in three separate sections, with a large hull extending into a raised, pointed prow in the form of a dragon head. The open deck centered by a rectangular aperture fitted with a small turret surmounted by an elaborate steeply pitched hipped roof in traditional palatial style. The exterior of the ship intricately decorated with vivid enamels in deep blue and red tones, enriched with a profusion of gilt details, including floral motifs framed by distinctive wave-like patterns. The roof is distinctively adorned with stylized openwork dragons and bordered with pendent tassel-like ornaments. HEIGHT 18.5 cm, LENGTH 30.3 cm With a wood storage box (tomobako), inscribed Satsuma yaki, Gozabune okimono, Koro, Gozabune 薩摩焼、御座船置物。香爐、御座船 [Satsuma ware, a display object (okimono) in the shape of luxurious ship for the Honorables, an incense burner in the shape of Nobleman's Boat] Gozabune (literally, ‘honorable-seat vessel’) is an Edo-period term referring to the luxurious riverine and seagoing craft employed by daimyo during the maritime or fluvial segments of their ‘sankin kotai’ processions, the system of alternate attendance that required provincial lords to maintain a regular presence at the shogunal capital of Edo. Frequently embellished with lacquerwork, gilded decoration, and other costly appointments, these vessels served not merely as means of transportation but also as highly visible manifestations of lordly authority, wealth, and cultural sophistication. The defining characteristic of a gozabune was the presence of a ‘goza’, or honorable seat, a rectangular pavilion-like superstructure erected above the deck. Modeled on the formal audience chambers of castles and elite residences, this enclosed space enabled a daimyo to maintain the protocols and ceremonial practices associated with his status while in transit. From within it, he could receive retainers, officials, and honored guests, effectively reproducing aboard ship the hierarchical and ritual environment of the warrior household.

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