Japanese Satsuma Bowl by Kanzan

Description Japanese Satsuma bowl signed Kanzan (桓山), produced during the Meiji Period and extensively decorated with finely detailed figural and landscape scenes across both the interior and exterior surfaces. The bowl is of deep circular form and richly painted throughout in Kyoto style enamels with extensive gilt decoration characteristic of late Meiji period Satsuma ware produced for export. The exterior features a lower greek key and gilt speckled border above which trailing morning glory vines emerge in soft blue, iron red and white enamels, their naturalistic movement contrasting against the structured decorative borders above. This restrained floral design is met by a polychrome geometric band incorporating stylised folding fans, beneath a band of flower heads interspersed with Noshi 熨斗 motifs representing ceremonial folded paper emblems associated with celebration and good fortune, all below a black and gilt Greek key rim typical of Meiji period Satsuma production. The interior is arranged around five shaped cartouches, four positioned around the perimeter enclosing a larger central reserve. Two panels depict animated domestic genre scenes showing figures engaged in daily activity including the preparation and transport of goods, rendered with lively movement and finely detailed costume decoration. Opposing panels present landscape compositions with mountainous scenery, flowering plants, butterflies and seasonal chrysanthemum sprays. At the centre, a large figural scene shows groups of men, women and children gathered within an outdoor setting beneath flowering trees, painted with careful attention to expression and posture. Surrounding borders are densely decorated with repeating chrysanthemum heads interspersed with further Noshi 熨斗 motifs and floral ornament, creating strong visual balance across the interior surface. The underside is signed Kanzan (桓山), a Meiji period Satsuma decorator associated with Kyoto production and the export workshops active during the late nineteenth century. An unusually decorative example of Meiji Period Satsuma ware combining complex figural painting with layered ornamental borders typical of high quality Japanese ceramics produced for the Western market. View the full Japanese Satsuma Collection. MEASUREMENTS 6.5cm High x 15.5cm Diameter (2.56 x 6.1 Inches) CONDITION Very Good Antique Condition What is Noshi (熨斗)? Noshi (熨斗) is a traditional Japanese decorative motif derived from ceremonial gift presentation practices. Originally, a noshi referred to a folded strip of dried abalone wrapped in paper, which was attached to gifts as a symbol of good fortune, longevity, and sincerity. Over time the form became stylised into elongated folded paper shapes used as decorative emblems. In Japanese decorative arts, particularly during the Meiji period, Noshi motifs were frequently incorporated into ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, and metalwork. They appear as overlapping folded ribbon or paper forms and were associated with celebration, prosperity, and auspicious occasions, making them especially popular on export wares produced for the Western market. Who was KANZAN (桓山)? Kanzan was an accomplished Satsuma artist active in Kyoto during the Meiji period. Working both as an individual and under the Yasuda company and likely within the atelier of Okamoto Ryozan, Kanzan produced finely painted export wares known for detailed figural scenes, lavish gilding, and strong traditional themes. For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on Kanzan. What is the Japanese MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)? The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art. For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation. WHAT IS SATSUMA WARE? Satsuma ware originated in southern Kyushu around 1600 and developed into one of Japan’s most recognisable ceramics. Early Ko-Satsuma pieces were rustic, dark-clay wares made for everyday use, while the later Kyo-Satsuma style became famous worldwide during the Meiji period. Characterised by ivory crackled glaze, delicate overglaze enamels, and lavish gilding, export Satsuma appealed strongly to Western collectors. Designs often feature landscapes, flowers, figures, and scenes from Japanese life and mythology. Renowned artists such as Yabu Meizan, Ryozan, and the Kinkozan workshop produced some of the finest examples, which remain highly sought after today. Genuine Satsuma can often be identified by the Shimazu crest, artist signatures, or the mark “Dai Nippon” used during the Meiji era. For further information on the history of Satsuma Ware please see our article Japanese Satsuma Ware. WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. 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