Description
This Japanese Satsuma Reticulated Vase by Shuzan dates to the Meiji period, circa 1900. The Japanese Satsuma earthenware vase is of ovoid form with a rare reticulated shoulder enclosed by bamboo borders, the body decorated with four gilt framed figural panels depicting women and children amongst seasonal fruit and vegetables, all set against a finely crackled ivory ground.
The principal panels depict women and children surrounded by seasonal produce including daikon radish, burdock root, mushrooms and other vegetables, all painted in soft polychrome enamels with extensive gilt highlights. Black and gilt geometric bands frame each reserve, providing contrast with the richly decorated figural scenes while allowing the painted details to remain the focus of the composition.
The pierced shoulder is an unusual feature, enclosed by bamboo borders that continue around the upper body of the vase. The combination of reticulated work, finely painted figural panels and seasonal still life decoration distinguishes this Meiji period Satsuma vase from more conventional examples.
When handled, the fine micro craquelure characteristic of quality Japanese Satsuma ware is clearly evident across the ivory ground, while the crisp gilding and carefully controlled enamels demonstrate the skill of the decorator.
The underside is signed in a black cartouche with gilt characters Shuzan (秀山). Shuzan later worked under the celebrated Okamoto Ryozan at the Yasuda Company, one of Kyoto’s most respected ceramic workshops during the Meiji period.
View the full Japanese Satsuma Collection.
MEASUREMENTS
13cm High x 5.5cm Diameter (5.12 x 2.17 Inches)
CONDITION
Very Good antique condition, no restoration.
Who was SHUZAN?
An elite master painter active in Kyoto during the late Meiji period (1868 to 1912), Shuzan is celebrated for decorating museum quality Kyoto Satsuma earthenware. Rather than operating a commercial kiln, he was commissioned as a top tier decorator for the most prestigious export houses of the golden age, regularly dual signing masterpiece cabinet pieces alongside the official factory marks of the Kinkōzan Studio and the Yasuda Company. His highly sought after work is universally recognised by its astonishingly fine brushwork, detailed miniature narrative panels, and lavish fields of raised gold stippling.
For further information see our Makers and Retailers profile on Shuzan.
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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