An antique Japanese Satsuma pottery vase. Late Meiji era, before 1912. Rounded shape, long cylindrical neck, pronounced base. The piece is hand-painted with traditional ornaments and figures of Japanese officials or sensei. Gilt accents. There is an embossed hieroglyphical signature on the bottom, Bishoken. Satsuma ware is a type of Japanese pottery which originated in Satsuma Province, since the 19th century it was mainly produced for Western export and therefore elaborately decorated. Bishoken was a Satsuma ware master living in the beginning of the 20th century. Collectible Oriental Asian Decor For Interior Design, Japanese Pottery.