Kôro (censer) of Satsuma ware

The remarkable creativity and skill of Japanese artisans is evident in examples of fine earthenware and stoneware tea utensils, as well as porcelain vessels made for everyday use. Relatively recent compared to China and Korea, production of Japanese porcelain began only in the 17th century. Often colourfully decorated with enamels, it grew in popularity and became a significant export to the West during the Edo and Meiji periods (1603 - 1868 and 1868 -1912), as did minutely decorated Satsuma earthenware. The early 20th century marked the beginning of modern Japanese studio ceramics, as a growing number of artist-potters pursued individual expressions both within and beyond Japanese traditions.