19thc Maiko Kutani-Ware Geisha & Cat

19th-century vintage Kutani-ware porcelain figurine. A lovely maiko (an apprentice Geisha) with a 'ya kichiya' [矢吉弥] musubi Osaka - Good Luck Arrow Taisho era (obi knot). A kitten plays by her side. Measures approximately 10 inches tall (25 cm).

The base of this early Kutani-ware figure is incised with the kiln and artist's mark H. Senda, Komatsu, Japan. Komatsu is a city in Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan famous for its production of Kutani-ware. The Japanese writing on the base is 大日本九谷焼, meaning Great Japan Kutani-ware Made For Export. 

Kutani-ware is treasured by collectors for its vivid dark colors that epitomize lavish aesthetics. Originating in 1655, Kutani-ware consisted of vessels and serve ware. In 1873, pieces were exhibited at the Vienna World Exposition which resulted in an export demand. By 1900 figurines were added to Kutani-ware with the specific purpose of catering to the European market. 

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