Kinkozan Satsuma company
(active 1645–1927)
The Kinkozan family was a renowned dynasty of Japanese ceramic artists, celebrated for their exceptional contributions to Satsuma ware during the Edo and Meiji periods. Based in Kyoto, the Kinkozan family rose to prominence in the 17th century and became one of the leading producers of this intricate and highly decorative pottery, which was prized both domestically and internationally.
Fine Japanese Japanese Satsuma Vase by Kinkozan available at Jacksons Antique
Satsuma ware itself originated in the Satsuma domain, but the Kinkozan family, particularly during the leadership of Kinkozan Sobei, adapted and refined the style to meet the growing demand for export goods during Japan’s opening to the West in the late 19th century. Their work was characterised by finely crackled cream-coloured glaze, elaborate hand-painted designs often featuring rich gold accents, and detailed depictions of Japanese life, nature, and mythology.
Variation of the Kinkozan signature on the base of a satsuma vase previously sold by Jacksons Antique
Under Kinkozan Sobei VI (1824-1884) and his successor Kinkozan Sobei VII (1867-1927), the family’s workshop expanded its operations significantly. They became prolific exporters of high-quality Satsuma ware, catering to Western tastes during the Meiji era. Their pieces often featured detailed and complex scenes of Japanese landscapes, flora, and figures, meticulously painted with a restrained colour palette and enriched with gold leaf.
Unusual Japanese Pair of Satsuma Vases by Kinkozan in a blue hue pallet available at Jacksons Antique
The Kinkozan family’s ceramics were exhibited at international expositions, such as the World’s Fair in Paris and Chicago, where they garnered widespread acclaim for their technical skill and artistic elegance. This helped establish the family as one of the most important names in the production of Satsuma ware during a time when Japanese art and culture were being introduced to a global audience. The legacy of the Kinkozan family in Japanese ceramics is one of innovation, craftsmanship, and artistic mastery, and their works remain highly sought after by collectors and museums worldwide.