Satsuma Ware - A Splendid Japanese Legacy
Discovering Japanese ceramics at Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad (1700-1950 A.D).
What is Satsuma ware?
Satsuma ware is a type of Japanese pottery (made using porcelain) originally from Satsuma Province, southern Kyushu- (now part of Kagoshima Prefecture) in southern Japan. The tea storage jar shown here is from circa 1800-1850 of the Edo period.
Satsuma ware comes in two main types: the early, simple plain dark Ko-Satsuma made in Satsuma from around 1600 and later, ornate Kyō-Satsuma, which became popular in the 19th century. The latter was primarily made for export.
The beginnings
The earliest forms of Satsuma ware date back to the 16th century during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1603). Pottery from this time was rudimentary, with simple, unglazed stoneware or earthenware vessels produced for utilitarian purposes.
Korean influence
Following Samurai General Toyotomi Hideyoshi's Korean campaigns, skilled Korean potters were brought to Japan. Their expertise significantly impacted the development of Satsuma ware, which emerged in the late 16th/early 17th centuries. The image alongside is of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
A hub for pottery
Satsuma's location and access to clay, plus Korean potters' arrival, fuelled its pottery growth. Naeshirogawa and Tateno became its central production areas. The print shown here is a - "View from the foot of the hill leading to Satsuma's palace".
Heroes of the Shimazu Clan (19th century) by Tsukioka YoshitoshiLos Angeles County Museum of Art
Rise to glory
Under the Shimazu clan ( illustration), Satsuma ware flourished during the Edo period (1603-1868), developing sophisticated techniques. Influenced by Korea and China, underglaze blue became a key feature. It was a time of political stability, economic growth, and internal peace.
The craft evolves
The potters also began to experiment with more glazing techniques, with some pieces employing a white slip glaze and others using a crackle glaze, which became one of the signature features of Satsuma ware. Seen here is a Sake ewer from the second half of 17th/18th century.
Symbols and decoration
Chrysanthemums, peonies, and cranes: Intricate motifs adorned Satsuma pottery, reflecting a new focus on detailed decoration and symbolic elements. We see a koro (censer) here made - circa 1801-1868 from the Edo period.
[Group of 266 Stereograph Views of the 1855 and/or 1867 Universal Expositions in Paris, France] [Group of 266 Stereograph Views of the 1855 and/or 1867 Universal Expositions in Paris, France] (1850s–1910s) by M. Leon|J. Levy|London Stereoscopic Company|William England|London Stereoscopic and Photographic Company|B. B. Savary|Rodolph & Company|European Scenery|E. & H. T. Anthony|Alexis Fay|H. P.|Unknown|Unknown|S. G. du Gouv.The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Paris exposition
The 1867 Paris Exposition Universelle marked Satsuma ware's first major introduction to the West. Its craftsmanship, detailed painting, and gold leaf captivated Western collectors. A stenograph view of the exposition alongside.
Satsuma's Golden Age
During the Meiji period (1868-1912), Satsuma ware reached the peak of its fame and quality. This era saw the production of large-scale porcelain pieces intended for export to the West. Satsuma ware became particularly popular in Europe and America.
Shifting fortunes
By the early 1900s, competition and shifting government priorities led to a decline in demand for traditional Satsuma ware. Other Japanese ceramics gained popularity, and utilitarian goods were prioritized over luxury items. Alongside is a portrait of Meiji emperor Maruki Riyo.
Satsuma Bowl (c. 1890 - 1920) by Shreve & Co.The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Cultural significance
Satsuma ware represents a blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, cultural influences, and international appeal. Its evolution over the centuries reflects broader shifts in Japanese society, from regional production to high-status luxury items that gained global recognition.
Satsuma porcelain at the Museum
An interesting and substantial collection of bowls, plates, large vases, tea-sets and figurines from Satsuma, is housed in the museum from the 19th and 20th centuries. The delicate vases have geometrical patterns, flowers, scenery all richly painted in gold,
Let's find out more!
Vase (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma vase
This Satsuma porcelain vase, dating from the 19th century, features dragon handles and landscapes. Geometric patterns and flowers adorn the rest of the surface.
Check out the beauty of the depicted landscape depicting houses as well, on the body of the jar.
Vase (1801/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma vase
This 19th-century Satsuma vase depicts a family in a garden, showcasing intricate floral details and gold work. A beautiful example of ornate Kyō-Satsuma.
A closer look at the intricately detailed vase depicting a family enjoying their garden.
Bowl (1801/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma bowl
This 19th-century Satsuma bowl showcases intricate painted panels depicting figures and flowers on both its inner and outer surfaces.
Vase with procession scene (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma vase
This 19th-century Satsuma vase depicts a vibrant chariot procession. Intricate details and gold accents showcase the artistry of Kyō-Satsuma.
Satsuma jar with lid (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Gourd - shaped jar with a lid
This 19th-century Satsuma jar, resting on three feet, is painted with grotesque figures, flowers, and the Prince of Satsuma's crest in gold. A dog and dragon add to the whimsical design. A figure of the dog of Fo with a ball under its right paw over the lid and a dragon below.
Meditatng Buddha (1700/1799)Salar Jung Museum
Meditating Buddha
Satsuma figure of the meditating Buddha, painted with gold colour to represent flowers and medallions all over the robe, dated to the 18th century.
Satsuma jar with lid (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Jar with lid
A 19th-century Satsuma jar with a lid, adorned with grotesque figures, dragons, and the Prince of Satsuma's crest.
Satsuma vase (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Crackle vase
A 19th-century porcelain crackle vase, shaped like a spittoon, features three birds, flowers, and river scenes. Its dull red band and geometric patterns add to its unique charm.
Satsuma dish (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Ornate dish
Satsuma porcelain dish painted with gold and other colours to represent medallions, flowers and birds, dated to the 19th century.
Miniature vase
A charming 20th-century Satsuma vase, small yet detailed. Features figures, flowers, and gold accents. Note the black neck border adding contrast.
Satsuma vase (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Miniature vase
This 19th-century miniature vase showcases intricate painted panels of figures, landscapes, and flowers. Gold detailing includes the Prince of Satsuma's crest.
Miniature kettle
A 19th-century exquisite miniature tea kettle, adorned with a Thousand Butterflies pattern. It features a lifting handle, spout, and cover.
Satsuma goglet (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma goglet
A 19th-century Satsuma goglet, double-bodied and red, features floral and bird designs, and three seated men; one holds a manuscript.
Satsuma curry pot (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Colourful curry-pot
This 19th-century Satsuma curry pot boasts an oval shape and vibrant red color. Intricate bird and floral designs adorn its two handles.
Satsuma saucer (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma saucer
A 19th-century Satsuma saucer depicts five ladies, two with umbrellas, near a pagoda and trees. The red porcelain is beautifully painted and adds definition to the piece.
This 19th-century Satsuma jug showcases vibrant red porcelain. Intricate painting depicts ladies, flowers, and birds across its panels.
Satsuma porcelain vase (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma porcelain vase
A 19th-century Satsuma vase depicting a man on horseback, a pagoda, a lady with a scroll, and a dragon. Intricate details and relief work showcase its artistry.
A pagoda in relief, a lady with a scroll in relief work add to the exclusivity of the vase.
Ornate ink-pot
A 19th-century ink-pot, its sides painted with a charming landscape and figures. A unique blend of function and art.
Satsuma incense burner (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Incense burner
This 19th-century incense burner features intricate panels depicting flowers, birds, and figures. Its fluted design adds to its elegance.
An interesting depiction of mothers with their children!
Satsuma porcelain mythological figure (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma mythological figure
A 19th-century Satsuma porcelain figure depicts a seated mythological woman atop a Korean lion, hand resting on a sword. Sepia, gold, and vibrant blues are prominent.
Satsuma porcelain mythological figure (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma mythological figure
A 19th-century Satsuma porcelain figure: a bearded personage holding a scroll and staff. Intricate gold, red, and blue details adorn the robe. The prince of Satsuma's crest is visible.
Satsuma tea-cup with saucer (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Cup and saucer
A cup with saucer from the 19th century, having dragon handles, representing floral designs. A flower with a branch inside bottom of the cup.
Satsuma plate (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma plate
This 19th-century plate features incised edges and painted panels depicting a group of haloed figures. A beautiful example of Satsuma artistry.
Satsuma porcelain Goddess Kwan yin (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Goddess Kwan-Yin
A 19th-century porcelain figure of Goddess Kwan Yin, the Buddhist goddess of compassion and mercy. She holds a ball and a bud, adorned with gold, blue, green, and black floral patterns.
Satsuma bowl (1800/1899)Salar Jung Museum
Satsuma bowl
A 19th-century Satsuma bowl. Intricate gold designs depict Japanese figures within six panels. Note the unique dress details and patterns, diamond shapes and lines among others.
Text and Curation: Soma Ghosh
Photography: M. Krishnamurthy and Bahadur Ali
Research Assistance: Dinesh Singh and E. Rajesh
Special thanks to : Shri Ashish Goyal, IIS, Director, Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, India.
Dr. G. Kusum, Curator, Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, India.
References:
1. Koyama, Fujio (1961) Japanese Ceramics from Ancient to Modern Times, Oakland: The Oakland Art Museum.
2. https://www.britannica.com/art/Satsuma-pottery (accessed 28.11.2024)
3. https://kevinpage.co.uk/news-and-blog/stories-behind-the-art/the-story-behind-the-art-the-satsuma-story/(accessed 30.11.2024)
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