Figure of Girl

Art Historical Context

Step into the vibrant world of Meiji-era Japanese ceramics with this delightful *Figure of Girl*, crafted around 1870 by an unknown artist. Standing at an impressive 19⅝ inches tall, this sculpture from Hizen ware—renowned for its fine Arita porcelain production—features intricate decoration in colored enamels by Kutani style. The result is a luminous figure of a young girl, her form brought to life with bold hues and detailed patterns typical of this overglaze enameling techniqueDuring Japan's Meiji period (1868–1912), a time of rapid modernization and global exchange, potters in Hizen adapted traditional methods to create export wares that captivated Western collectors. Kutani-type enamels, with their vivid reds, greens, and golds often depicting florals or figures, showcased technical mastery: enamels fired at lower temperatures over a glossy base glaze for enduring color and shine. This piece reflects that fusion, blending Edo-period elegance with Meiji innovation. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art Department since a 1923 gift from Mrs. V. Everit Macy, the figurine highlights Japan's ceramic prowess amid cultural transformation. A charming testament to artistry and adaptability, it invites us to appreciate the delicate beauty of a girl's poised form frozen in porcelain splendor.