Description
A Japanese Meiji period Satsuma earthenware plate by Sennosuke Kusube, of scalloped form and decorated against a rich cobalt blue ground with extensive gilt ornament framing a finely painted figural scene. The border is richly embellished with stylised ho-o (phoenix) roundels and honeycomb motifs, forming a floral petal-shaped reserve around the central decoration and demonstrating the careful balance of gilt and colour associated with fine Kyoto Satsuma ware.
The central scene depicts a family partaking in Shishi-mai (獅子舞), the traditional Japanese lion dance performed during festivals to bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits. A figure wearing the dynamic lion costume stands amongst flowering peonies while children and elegantly dressed women (bijin) gather around, creating a lively domestic scene. The group is set within a broad spring landscape with cherry blossom, distant mountains and a pavilion beside the water, the softly painted background lending a distinct sense of depth to the composition.
The cobalt blue border is further enriched with dense gilt work incorporating geometric honeycomb patterns, motifs long associated with prosperity and good fortune in Japanese decorative arts. The scalloped outline of the plate enhances the petal-shaped reserve.
When handled, the fine micro-craquelure characteristic of quality Satsuma earthenware is clearly evident across the ivory ground, while the delicate painting demonstrates the tight control of the decorator.
The reverse bears a square reserve signed 楠部 (Kusube), for Sennosuke Kusube, a highly respected Kyoto pottery workshop known for independent premium export productions as well as collaborating with the celebrated Kinkozan studio.
Fresh to the market, this Meiji period Satsuma plate remains a beautifully preserved example of Kyoto artistry, combining an unusual depiction of the Shishi-mai dance with fine gilding, making it a stellar addition to a collection of fine Japanese ceramics.
View the full Japanese Satsuma Collection.
Measurements
21.5cm Diameter x 4cm High (8.46 x 1.57 Inches)
Condition
Very Good antique condition with some wear to the gilding.
What is SHISHI-MAI (獅子舞)?
Shishi-mai (獅子舞), or Lion Dance, is a traditional Japanese performance believed to have arrived from China via Korea during the Asuka period. Performed during the New Year and other festive occasions, the dance is intended to bring good fortune and drive away evil spirits. It typically features a lacquered lion head (shishi-gashira) with a green cloth body, animated by one or more performers, and accompanied by drums and flutes. Variations exist across Japan, with over 9,000 regional styles recorded. In some forms, the lion “bites” participants for luck. Shishi-mai also appears in classical theatre, including Noh, Kabuki, and Shinto ritual dances such as kagura.
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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We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production.
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