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Hello forum,
I found these two studio pottery vessels at different time and places in my town. I am wondering if anybody can help with the marks.
Thanks!

Hello Alan,
These two Japanese kanji characters may be transcribed as Mitsuyama, Kouzan/Kozan, Kouyama/Koyama, Hikarizan or Hikariyama, among other possible variants. The names Kozan and Koyama are both associated with well-known studio artists, but the kanji forming the latter names isn't the same as what's on your vases (or stem cups). Perhaps someone who knows this type of Japanese ceramics better than I do can help you identify the right potter.
Regards,
Bill H

Thanks for your input! I should mention that the piece on the right is about 12" tall and the one on the left is 14".
Thanks,
Alan.

I have a similar compote vase by the same artist (see photos and mark), and was wondering if you'd been able to find anything out. I'd like to know more about my piece, as well.

Hi Darren,
I've come across nothing else relevant to the mark or ceramics.
Regards,
Bill H.

Thanks, Bill. In doing some digging last night, I actually found several other pieces with the same kiln mark, that are attributed to Edgar Littlefield. Here's one.

Strange, as my vase also has a "made in Japan" sticker on it.

I'm not convinced that these pieces are Edgar Littlefield. I only saw one on ruby lane that was attributed to him and they saw nothing about where they got the attribution. Also he is listed in Vasefinder but there are no marks like the ones here. I'm still looking but right now I am skeptical.

Dear Alan,

I have several pieces from this potter, and like them very much. This is the first time that I've seen one which is similar to one of mine, so they are not unique pieces. My stem cup has the same mark/number. I have never found the importer's name.

The mark has been translated as Mitsuyama or Kozan.

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