Antique Japanese Satsuma 2pc Scholar Desk Set Meiji Miniature Koro Washer

Up for your absolute consideration is a magnificent, highly unique antique 2-piece matching miniature Japanese Satsuma earthenware scholar’s desk set.

Exquisitely handcrafted in Japan during the late Meiji period (circa 1890–1912), this coordinated duo coordinates flawlessly into an upscale globalist, eclectic hutch, or traditional scholarly library vignette.

Each piece features a creamy ivory-colored clay body boasting a beautiful, fine network of age-appropriate underglaze crackle. The exteriors are minutely hand-decorated with detailed polychrome enamel vignettes depicting traditional Japanese Bijin noblewomen and scholars in outdoor garden pavilions, heavily framed by thick, multi-textured gold-gilt brocade borders, geometric lattice frames, and scrolling cartouches.

This Coordinated 2-Piece Set Includes:

1. One (1) Miniature Cylindrical Brush Pot / Open Koro Jar: Detailed with twin molded figural animal-head relief handles on the shoulders.

2. One (1) Matching Round Brush Washer Bowl: A low-profile companion container resting on three short integrated tripod peg feet.

Condition: Great antique condition across both pieces. The heavy earthenware clay bodies remain structurally sound, solid, and stable with no large cracks, structural hairline fractures, or internal ink staining. The fine network of glaze crazing is completely stable, uniform, and original. The hand-painted enamel figures and gold overlays remain remarkably rich, colorful, and highly reflective throughout. Fully disclosed is one tiny, shallow flea-bite nick along the upper gold-gilt rim edge of the cylindrical jar (clearly documented in the macro photo), which is very common for late 19th-century Japanese pottery and does not detract from its display beauty. (Note: The koro jar is missing its original lid, functioning perfectly as an open display brush pot).

Measurements: Petite collector scale. Jar stands approximately 3 inches tall x 2.75 inches wide. Washer bowl stands 2.25 inches tall x 3 inches in diameter.

Markings: Bases feature smooth unglazed foot rings displaying their raw, authentic cream-colored antique clay bodies.