Height 12 in., Width 4.75 diameter in., Depth 5 in. each. Weight 4 lb. 2 oz. each. This matched pair of Japanese porcelain vases stand 12 inches tall and are of twisted or spiraling cylindrical form with a gently waisted and torqued body creating a subtle helical profile, the surface decorated in underglaze cobalt blue on a pale celadon tinged white ground with alternating vertical panels of densely painted seigaiha overlapping wave scale pattern and open reserve panels painted with naturalistic botanical sprays including chrysanthemums, wisteria and pine rendered with fluid brushwork and occasional gilt accent details. The seigaiha -- the classic Japanese overlapping semicircle wave pattern derived from ancient textile and ceramic traditions -- is one of the most enduring motifs in Japanese decorative arts and here alternates rhythmically with the floral reserve panels as the pattern wraps continuously around the twisted form. At 12 inches the pair present with considerable visual presence and would display effectively as a garniture on a mantelpiece or console table. The twisted or torqued cylinder form is a technically demanding shape in porcelain production requiring careful manipulation of the clay body before firing, and is associated with the inventive approach to form characteristic of Meiji period Japanese ceramics produced for both the domestic market and the flourishing export trade to Europe and America. Condition is good with some minor firing imperfections to the rims consistent with period production and the blue decoration remaining vivid and well defined throughout both vases.