Satsuma Pottery

Satsuma Table Lamp

admin — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 07:58:51 +0000

This is the kind of post where I like to right some wrongs and dispel some errors when it comes to buying antique Satsuma pottery pieces. If you look on sites like eBay, you will find many Satsuma Table Lamps for sale, which, although they are attractive, they are not what I would call authentic. They even go so far as to advertise them as "antique" too.

My points are as follows:

The majority of these lamps are made from Satsuma "Style" vases and pots that have been changed to hold a wooden stand and electrical connection.
No right minded antiques collector would wreck an original piece to turn it into a lamp. They would just be crazy. Apart from drilling a hole in the base for the electrical cord to run through, they also block off the hole at the top too.
These vases are only imitation Satsuma. They are produced in the Satsuma style only - so be careful and wary of buying ones that claim to be antique.
You may come across an old lamp from the 40's, after Satsuma pottery became massively popular all over the world, but that is most likely the most antique you will get. There may be exceptions to this rule, but I think this is right.

So please be aware of my thoughts on this subject and buy knowing exactly what you are getting.

ANTIQUE SMALL SATSUMA DRAGON LAMP
US $90.00

1979 Marbro Lamp Company Satsuma Vase 1890 Print Ad
US $9.95

GOLD SATSUMA PORCELAIN CANDY BOX LAMP TABLE LAMP 155
US $138.00

Pair Asian Table Lamp Japan Satsuma China Floral Vase
US $245.00

GOLD JAPANESE SATSUMA SCALLOPS JAR LAMP TABLE LAMP 23
US $150.00

SATSUMA POTTERY BASE TABLE LAMP VINTAGE
US $95.00

SATSUMA TEA JAR Lamp JG0810A East Enterprises
US $150.00

Satsuma Pottery Table Lamp Vintage Antique
US $65.00

Antique Japanese Satsuma Butterfly Floral Lamp w Gold
US $125.00

Antique Japanese Moriage

admin — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 12:24:51 +0000

Moriage is the term used to describe the fine and delicate layering or placing of clay on pieces of pottery. The Japanese potters of centuries ago were enthused with this method and used it to create many brilliant designs over the years.

In the case of Satsuma pottery, the clay was often added in small bumps, circles or lumps to decorate the piece. On a satsuma vase for instance, you will see small raised dots, often painted a different color. These are the moriage layers.

Other types of pottery from Japan also used this method of decoration too. Dragonware pottery is famed for it's intricate dragon designs, all classed as moriage pottery. The shame about this kind of decoration is that it can be easily damaged over time and break off. Also some of the paint work, gilding or color can rub off if the pieces are not kept in good condition.

Fine Antique Japanese Satsuma Geisha Moriage Egg Cup
US $9.99

Superb Antique Japanese Satsuma Pottery 2 Ewers Moriage
US $225.00

Genuine Rare Antique Japanese Satsuma Moriage Vase
US $169.10

ANTIQUE SATSUMA MORIAGE TEACUP SAUCER
US $20.00

JAPANESE MEIJI MORIAGE SATSUMA EARTHENWARE JARDINIERE
US $119.99

Satsuma Moriage Foo Dog Incense Burner
US $25.00

Satsuma Moriage Elephant Coffee Tea Pot
US $25.00

Satsuma Moriage Sitting Diety Plant Holder
US $25.00

VINTAGE JAPANESE SATSUMA MORIAGE PORCELAIN VASE c 1960s
US $80.55

Are You A Satsuma Pottery Expert? Or How To Spot A Fake

admin — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 08:51:05 +0000

An example of a real Satsuma marking. Note the Shimazu crest at the top (circle with a cross)

The team and I get plenty of emails from readers of this site asking us to look at their Satsuma Pottery and tell them the value, the history and anything about it we can. The only problem is, that 80% of these messages are met with the same reply:

"I'm sorry to say that this piece is not a real Satsuma antique, it is a mass produced copy, probably not even made in Japan"

Being able to determine which item is real and which is a copy or fake is not an easy task. You will need to be able to find the marking on the item and confirm that it is the real deal and not a copy. A great rule of thumb is to remember that all original pieces made in the Satsuma region of Japan do not have any english words on them. The artists and makers always signed the pieces with their names and often the word Satsuma, but never in english. They also commonly show the image associated with the emperor of the time, a circle with a cross through it.

An example of a copied Vase or jar in the Satsuma style

So remember, if you are looking at purchasing a Satsuma Vase or something similar, turn it over and look at the marking on the bottom. If it says "Royal Satsuma" or something similar, you know it is not an antique. The pieces that were copies are very beautiful and look very nice and there is nothing wrong with owning one. It will cost you substantially less than other originals too.

You will also need to remember to look for the crackled glaze and the off white or creamy coloring of the pottery underneath. The images are also important too and you should look for traditional Japanese people such as Geisha girls, immortals or plants and animals. Anything contemporary will show that the piece is a copy.

Do you have any tips for our readers on spotting fakes or copies of Satsuma Pottery?

You might also be interested in our list of books to help you find out about the Satsuma markings.

Top 5 Books About Satsuma Pottery

admin — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 07:53:01 +0000

We all love to read about Satsuma Pottery and there are many books available that will teach you about the makers, the markings and the process used to make this kind of pottery. Also, people have their favorite kinds of books too. Some will opt for a proper antiques guide, offering prices and tips on choosing a good and authentic piece, but others will want to know as much of the Japanese history behind the items as they can. Learning the information about where the pieces cam from can make owning or collecting them so much more rewarding.

Here at the Satsuma Pottery site, we want to help people get involved in the history and the background of the people that made the pieces. The time when these vases and buttons were made was hard and people were very poor. Making pottery was an excellent skill to have, as was the ability to illustrate the pieces. Those who were fortunate enough to work, making these masterpieces, were the ones how were able to have a better standard of living in early Japan.

These books will tell you about Satsuma Pottery, but also about the times they were made and the people who were involved. From warlords to emperors, the history of Satsuma is very rich, so choose a book and enjoy.

1. Imari, Satsuma and Other Japanese Export Ceramics

The popularity of Japanese ceramics in the West caused a vast and delightful variety of wares to be made in the late nineteenth century for export. Colorful Imari porcelain in deep blue, orange-red, and gold, Fukagawa porcelain in imaginative designs, as well as the softly colored Satsuma earthenwares, are the best known of the old Japanese exports, shown here in hundreds of variations created by skilled decorators. This new edition has an updated values reference and additional items shown in each chapter, especially early Imari wares from the period c. 1700. Also presented are the exotic Sumida and Banko wares, relative newcomers to the field whose popularity has grown steadily over the last ten years. Makers' and decorators' marks, unusual shapes, design variations, and hard-to-find examples are all shown in 600 color photographs with identifying captions and concise text.

2. Treasures of Imperial Japan: Ceramics from the Khalili Collection (Nasser D. Khalili Collection of J

Full-colour catalogue of an exhibition of 98 items of japanese ceramics by Meiji artists such as Makuzu Kozan and Yabu Meizan.

3. Meiji Ceramics: The Art of Japanese Export Porcelain and Satsuma Ware 1868-1912

Pressure exerted by America in 1854 caused Japan to open its doors after 260 years of isolation. Wide receptiveness to everything Western was the driving force behind the modernization of Japan initiated by the Meiji government, yet it also induced a rapid rediscovery of indigenous cultural values. At early Paris and London international exhibitions, the Japanese decorative and applied arts sparked off the Western fascination with all things Japanese japonisme. In Japan, on the other hand, new technologies were eagerly adopted the government realized that increasing production for export would be an excellent means of promoting Japanese economic growth and thus enhancing Japan's status worldwide. Meiji Ceramics represents the first in-depth study of the development of Japanese export porcelain against a highly charged background of political, economic and cultural factors. Includes 180 artists's signatures. Text in English.

4. Collector's Encyclopedia of Pickard China: With Additional Sections on All Chicago China Studios

This book documents and illustrates over 1,000 pieces of china, the Pickard trademarks, and old advertising with color photos and current collector values. It also includes over 150 brief artist biographies, patent information, a bibliography, and the various china associations. All known antique pattern names, as well as popular designs of anonymity are listed, many patterns never before identified. Due to the lack of a source of information on Pickard china, Alan Reed has devoted a decade of research on his own -- through interviews, letters, papers, U.S. Census records, and through other collectors. The history of the other Chicago studios and the artists from the 'golden era' (between 1894 and 1925) of handpainted china are included. 2000 values. REVIEW: Over 800 photos with no repeats from Book I are featured in this collector's guide. It's divided into six collectible categories: early years (1700 - 1875), cabinet cups, nineteenth & twentieth century, English bone china, miniatures, and figurals. A marks section, helpful appendix, and bibliography are included, as well as useful tips for dealers and collectors. -Robert Clayton

5. MEIJI NO TAKARA: TREASURES OF IMPERIAL JAPAN: Ceramics Part Two: Earthenware (The Nasser D. Khalili

The second of two volumes on ceramics, this book covers earthenware and focuses on another great artist-entrepreneur, Yabu Meizan (1853-1934), and illustrates 168 of his earthenwares and those of his contemporaries and imitators, minutely decorated in enamels and gold over a characteristic crackled ground. This volume of the Collection is sold with a free copy of Volume I: Selected Essays.

Satsuma Tea Set

admin — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 11:14:32 +0000

Although Satsuma style pottery can be very old, there are still a number of Tea Sets that were made during this time period. The Satsuma Tea Sets usually come as a set, often in a wooden presentation case inlayed with a soft material such as velvet or silk.

The pottery tea set also features the intricate designs, patterns and images that make the Satsuma style so popular and collectible all over the world. You may find a set with images of Geisha girls on or minute pictures of plants and flowers.

When buying a Satsuma tea set, make sure that you ensure that it is all in place. The set often comprises of a small tea pot and some small bowls or cups (later on). Also make sure that the markings on the bottom of the set are not written in english as this is a good indication that it is not an original piece and may be a copy or a more modern reproduction.

Satsuma Arnart Imports Inc 1979 Peacock Tea Set
US $14.99

Antique Japanese Satsuma Bamboo Tea Serving Set signed
US $200.00

FINE ANTIQUE SATSUMA IMMORTALS COMPLETE TEA SET SIGNED
US $40.14

ANTIQUE JAPANESE SATSUMA TEA SET SERVICES
US $3,000.00

Japanese Satsuma 19th C Meiji Tea Set Service 27 pieces
US $1,100.00

Magnificent 17 piece Satsuma Tea set Circa 1925
US $599.00

Beautiful Antique SATSUMA Autumn Leaves 11 Pce TEA SET
US $149.00

Vintage Satsuma Tea Set Signed
US $149.99

Japanese Satsuma Tea Set 24 pc Meiji Period 19th C
US $795.00

Japanese Tea Set

admin — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:35:33 +0000

One of the most common items to collect, if you are interested in Asian or Japanese antiques is a satsuma or Japanese Tea Set. These delicate, fine items, made from pottery or porcelain are very valuable, collectible and desirable.

Green Tea was first used by religious groups back in the 13th century and since then, tea and tea ceremonies have become very important to Japanese people who still perform them today.

Each of the items in the Japanese Tea Set are handled with great care and cleaned thoroughly before and after use. The ceremony is carried out with certain movements and processes performed at certain times.

The pottery or porcelain used to serve the tea to the guests is usually quite small. The cups or bowls that are used to drink from are only large enough to contain no more than 3-4 mouthfuls of tea. Nothing like the mugs we use for our coffee. As with other Satsuma Pottery, the items will be highly decorated with images of Japanese life, flowers, wildlife or people. They also follow the same crackling glaze as seen on other items such as the popular Satsuma Vases.

If you are looking to purchase a Japanese or Satsuma Tea Set, one of the most important things to consider is the condition. Most tea sets were kept in a wooden box which is inlayed with silk or another soft cloth. Therefore, the items should be well cared for, clean and undamaged. Look out for hairline cracks or chips in the cups and bowls as these will be most likely.

You also need to remember that the Satsuma style was heavily copied throughout the world and therefore, not all "Satsuma" marked pieces are real antiques. Make sure you know what you are buying before you pay up.

G485 Japanese SATSUMA ware tea bowl w signed box GOOL
US $70.00

Antique Japanese Satsuma Bamboo Tea Serving Set signed
US $200.00

Satsuma Moriage Elephant Coffee Tea Pot
US $25.00

ANTIQUE JAPANESE SATSUMA TEA SET SERVICES
US $3,000.00

Satsuma Arnart Imports Inc 1979 Peacock Tea Set
US $14.99

JAPANESE Pair Satsuma TEA CUP in Box Signed
US $60.00

ANTIQUE JAPANESE SATSUMA MORIAGE TEA POT
US $145.00

Japanese Tea Ceremony Ceramics Book Satsuma Yaki Chawan
US $66.96

Beautiful Antique SATSUMA Autumn Leaves 11 Pce TEA SET
US $149.00

Satsuma Antiques

admin — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:35:50 +0000

There are many types of Satsuma Antiques to collect. The Satsuma region of Japan produced many different styles and types of pottery over the last 200 years and much of it can be considered as valuable.

Satsuma Vases are very popular among collectors. These vases, some as tall as 9 or 10 inches, are highly decorated with images of Japanese Geisha girls or images of wildlife. Used mainly for the display of flowers, a Satsuma Vase is a great addition to any collection of Japanese porcelain or pottery.

Another popular Satsuma antique are the Satsuma Geisha Buttons. These tiny, delicately decorated earthenware buttons were worn on the clothing of Japanese Geisha girls. They are often hand painted with images of plants, flowers or animals.

There are many types of Satsuma Pottery you could collect. Always look for the tell tale crackled glaze, yellowish appearance and intricate and sometimes raised decoration.

Royal Satsuma

admin — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 06:27:37 +0000

When you begin to collect or become interested in Satsuma Pottery, you may come across several terms that you are unfamiliar with. One such term which can also be misleading is "Royal Satsuma".

The term "Royal Satsuma" refers to the type of Satsuma Pottery that was mass produced to be sold abroad. It is also possible that the piece of pottery was even made in somewhere like China too - such was the demand for Satsuma style pieces after they were made known to the world.

If you have a piece of pottery that is marked "Royal Satsuma" on the bottom, then it is certainly not an authentic piece from Japan. It could have been made in Japan, but it will not be a proper antique. It was not until the late 1940's that potters in Japan began to use English to mark their work.

As a rule of thumb, when buying or checking any pieces of "antique satsuma pottery" if it has ANY english words on, then it will certainly not be from the Meiji Period. Also, anything sold as "Royal Satsuma" will not be from a Japanese Royal palace or have belonged to the Emperor - it will most likely not be from Japan at all.

ROYAL SATSUMA TEA CUP 1880S SIGNED HAND PAINTED GOLD
US $49.99

ROYAL DOULTON china SATSUMA E5692 Chocolate Cup
US $24.99

1 OLD VINTAGE ROYAL SATSUMA NIPPON SALT PEPPER SHAKER
US $1.99

Royal Satsuma Heart
US $10.00

Royal Satsuma Vase
US $199.99

Royal Satsuma Bowl Hand Painted Marked
US $.99

Pair Antique Royal Satsuma Japanese Ceramic Vases 19thc
US $1,399.99

ROYAL DOULTON china SATSUMA E5692 Chocolate Cup
US $24.99

Fine MEIJI ROYAL SATSUMA Censer Incense Burner Koro
US $3,500.00

Satsuma Meiji Period

admin — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 07:04:13 +0000

The Meiji Period runs from 1868 to 1912 and during this time there were many events that shaped Japan and also the pottery and porcelain that was being made.

The Satsuma Clan who were based on the same southern island of Japan and from the area responsible for creating the exquisite pottery began a revolt against the government as they were not happy with the direction they were taking. The Satsuma Samurai rose up against the army of the Meiji government, swords against guns.

The uprising was swiftly crushed by the government army but the tales of the rebellion and uprising live on in the pottery and art from that period. Images of war, of the Samurai - notably Saigo Takamori or Kido Koin both important figures in this era appear on the sides of the Satsuma Vases and bowls, fighting for their beliefs.

Satsuma Pottery from the Meiji Period is a popular choice amongst collectors and antique buyers due to the historic times when it was created as well as the fine craftsmanship and quality.

ANTIQUE JAPANESE MEIJI PERIOD SATSUMA BOWL DISH
US $8.00

Japanese MEIJI SATSUMA Pottery Cherry Blossom Jar Vase
US $249.36

Antique 12” Japanese Satsuma Pottery Meiji Samurai Vase
US $99.99

Meiji Sasuma Cobalt Blue Satsuma Panel Vase
US $330.00

Meiji Satsuma Cobalt Blue Vase
US $102.50

Old Antique Japanese Meiji Kutani Satsuma Teapot Signed
US $48.52

ANTIQUE JAPANESE SATSUMA MEIJI PERIOD VASE 1800s
US $1,499.00

ANTIQUE JAPANESE MEIJI KYOTO COLBALT SATSUMA VASE 1890
US $79.99

Meiji Taisho Japanese Satsuma Earthenware Dish
US $800.00

Satsuma Gosu Blue

admin — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:52:22 +0000

A term that is used frequently regarding Satsuma or Japanese pottery and ceramics is "Gosu Blue".

Gosu Blue refers to the use of certain natural minerals and elements such as Cobalt or Asbolite to be used as the base for an under glaze or over glaze of the piece of pottery. Satsuma Pottery that has been decorated using the Gosu Blue techniques has a certain bluish hue to the images that are hand painted onto the surface of the pottery.

If Gosu Blue is used as an over glaze, the images become brighter and more vivid.

Gosu Blue Satsuma Pottery is possibly the most popular type to own and therefore commands a higher price than other types of Japanese ceramics. Pottery that was produced using this method was seldom and was made during the mid 19th century in Kyoto, Japan.

Japanese gosu blue Satsuma Vase w paradise bird
US $110.00