Japanese Meiji Period Satsuma Koro by Senzan with Painted Panels

Description Meiji Period (1868-1912)  From our Japanese Satsuma collection, we are pleased to present this finely painted Meiji period Satsuma Koro by Senzan (泉山). The koro is of square form, raised on bracket-style feet, with decorative roundels at each shoulder framed by detailed borders. The domed lid is surmounted by a chrysanthemum finial finished in gold. Each side is painted with a unique scene. One shows bijin peering playfully through a screen, finely rendered with subtle expression. Another depicts a lush landscape of tall foliage with delicate floral detail, set against the classic ivory crackle ground. A third panel presents a mountainous scene with traditional homes and a waterfall flowing through the centre, highlighted with touches of gold. The final panel displays cascading wisteria and cosmos flowers in soft purples and pinks. The base carries the painted signature of Senzan (泉山) within a gold cartouche. A highly decorative and varied example of Meiji period (1868-1912) Satsuma ware, combining narrative, nature and ornamental design. Wisteria (fuji 藤) In japanese culture Wisteria, known in Japan as fuji (藤), has been admired for centuries as a symbol of elegance, longevity and nobility. During the Heian period (794-1185), the colour purple, which is closely associated with wisteria, was reserved for members of the imperial court and aristocracy. Wisteria also has practical and cultural importance through textile known as fuji-fu, made from the plant’s vines. It is one of the oldest fabrics in Japan and was designated a tangible cultural property in 1991. Since the Edo period, wisteria has been cultivated on trellises to create its distinctive flowering canopy, a tradition still seen in gardens today. It was also used historically in traditional medicine, adding to its layered cultural meaning. what is a Bijin (美人) is a Japanese term meaning “beautiful person,” most often used to describe women. In traditional Japanese art, bijin were commonly shown in scenes from daily life, such as walking through gardens, writing letters, or adjusting their clothing. These figures appeared widely in woodblock prints and ceramics from the Edo and Meiji periods. Rather than being formal portraits, they usually captured small, quiet moments that reflected how people dressed and behaved during that time. Japanese Koro A Japanese koro (香炉) is a traditional incense burner, crafted in ceramic, bronze, or mixed metals, and often decorated with intricate motifs. First used in religious rituals during the Heian period, koro became popular in homes during the Edo period as symbols of refinement and purification. Designed with lids and ash beds to hold incense neatly, they combine beauty with function and remain highly collectible in Japanese art, especially in forms such as Satsuma ware and bronze examples. For further information please see our article on Japanese Koro (香炉): Incense Burners in Art, Ritual, and Collecting. 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  11cm High x 9cm Wide x 9cm Deep (4.33 x 3.54 x 3.54 Inches)  CONDITION Very Good-Excellent, some old nibbles to the inner side of the lid which have smoothed down over the years original firing line inside from extreme heat. 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.