Japanese Meiji Period Satsuma Fan Dish by Kinkozan

Description Meiji Period (1868-1912)  From our Japanese Satsuma collection, we’re pleased to offer this Meiji period Satsuma pottery fan-shaped dish by Kinkozan. This finely painted piece is formed in the shape of a traditional folding fan, a format often used for display in the late 19th century. The central panel shows a detailed gathering of seated and standing figures in an outdoor setting. Behind them flows a wide river, with gently rising hills and traditional buildings in the distance. A pine tree completes the scene, with each figure painted in individual dress and varied poses. Surrounding the central group is a rich border of seasonal flowers, painted in full colour and edged with simulated bamboo framing. This decorative technique gives the piece a layered, three-dimensional appearance typical of Satsuma ware. The front surface is glazed with the warm tone and crackle associated with fine Meiji period earthenware, while the reverse carries the impressed Kinkozan mark, identifying one of Kyoto’s most important kilns of the period. A highly decorative and colourful example of export Satsuma, showing the brushwork and storytelling often seen in the best pieces from the Kinkozan studio throughout the Japanese Meiji Period (1868-1912). KINKOZAN 金光山 the Kinkozan family have been associated with pottery dating back to 1645. They went on to become the largest producer of Satsuma ware by one individual company, from the end of the 19th century until 1927 after which the factory closed. By the 1850s Kobayashi Sobei (1824-84), Kinkozan Sobei (artist name Kinkozan IV), started to export his products together with the Kyoto manufacturer Taizan VIII. The main target market was America with their main production period approximately between 1875-1927 under the leadership of Kinkozan V(1868-1927). For further information please see our makers and retailers page on Kinkozan. 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. SATSUMA WARE Satsuma ware originated in southern Kyūshū 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 Kyō-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 Kinkōzan 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 Wear please see our article Japanese Satsuma Ware. MEASUREMENTS  9cm High x 16.5cm Wide x 2cm Deep (3.5 × 6.5 × 0.8 inches) CONDITION Excellent Condition – usual wear consistent with antique age With every purchase from Jacksons Antique, you will receive our latest product guide, certificate of authenticity, full tracking information so you can monitor your shipment from start to finish and our personal no-hassle, money-back policy giving you that extra confidence when purchasing. Don’t forget to sign up to our free monthly newsletter for 10% off your first online purchase.