Title: Satsuma Ware, Families
Description
This item is the Ruriyu/Rurigusuri (瑠璃釉) base Satsuma ware. Ruri (瑠璃) is lapis lazuli, and Ruriyu is one of the glazes. It is a high-fired glaze made from feldspar mixed with cobalt oxide, which gives it a vivid indigo color. In this work, this Ruriyu is effectively used, making its gorgeous appearance with the combination of golden painting. The Ruriyu part has a smooth surface, and depictions of chrysanthemum flowers are applied to it using gold coloring. A long time ago, chrysanthemums were used as a medicine for obtaining a long life in the continent, and this plant was brought to Japan with this thought in the Nara period (648-781). Chrysanthemum symbolizes fall, and people have greatly appreciated it since ancient times. As its petals form radially, the chrysanthemum has been likened to the sun. That is why this flower pattern is treated as the symbol of perpetual youth and longevity or good health. It is a plant that has been loved by many Japanese people for a long time not only for its beautiful appearance but also for its auspicious meaning.
The shape of this vase creates four screens, each with a different theme. The themes could be divided into Jinbutsu Zu (人物図, human figures) and Shokubutsu Zu (植物図, botanical figures). You would find that two different families appear on this vase. One side depicts a Samurai family. You would see a Samurai and his son. This Samurai wearing luxurious armor and has a dignified expression; he appears to be listening to his son’s story. On the other hand, we could find the figure of different family. There is a child playing with his father and a baby being carried on him/her mother’s back. In contrast to the Samurai family we mentioned above, we get the impression that there is a calm atmosphere. This vase is an interesting piece in that there are many ways to enjoy it as an interior decoration, as the atmosphere changes depending on which side you display it on.
Now, please focus on the bottom of this vase. There is a signature and we believe it is written as follows: 龍雲 冨山. According to a theory, this signature shows the name of 川崎 富山 (around1875-1922). It is said 龍雲 冨山-signed Satsuma wares were exported from Japan to Western countries during the Meiji (明治, 1868-1912) and Taishō (1912-1926) eras. Please note that there is no proof regarding this signature on this vase.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
What is Satsuma Yaki?
Satsuma Yaki (薩摩焼, Satsuma ware) is Japanese pottery made in Satsuma Province (Kagoshima Pref. today). From 1529 to 1598, the battle of Bunroku, Keichou (文禄・慶長の役) happened. It was the conflict between Japan and the Korean Peninsula. After this troop dispatch to the Korean Peninsula, Yoshihiro Shimazu, the 17th feudal lord of the Satsuma domain, brought back more than 80 Korean potters to Japan. They opened kilns in various parts into the Satsuma domain and made different pottery types depending on their locations or style of a potter. They were categorized into five styles: Naeshirogawa-Kei (苗代川系), Tateno-Kei (竪野系), Ryumonji-Kei (龍門司系), Nishimochida-Kei (西餅田系), Hirasa-Kei (平佐系). And all of them are called Satsuma Yaki.
Satsuma ware is classified as two groups based on the differences of each characteristic. There are Shiro-Satsuma (白薩摩) and Kuro-Satsuma (黒薩摩). Shiro-Satsuma is also called Shiromon (白もん). It is made of white clay and is carefully molded. And then, it is covered with a transparent glaze. Fine cracks are seen on the surface of the pottery. Usually, it is decorated with gorgeous designs with gold, red, green, purple, and yellow. Shiro-Satsuma was made for the domain so that the domain and the Shimazu family had it. Kuro-Satsuma is also known as Kuromon (黒もん). It has been appreciated as a daily household appliance for ordinary people in contrast to Shiromon. As it uses ferrous soil, Kuro-Satsuma has black color and has a simple and sturdy body.
Satsuma ware was exhibited in the 1867 Paris World Expo and regarded highly in Europe. Since then, Satsuma ware has been called “SATSUMA” and is loved in Japan and overseas.
【About us】
Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on.
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【Shipping duration】
We normally ship via EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. It usually takes at least 5-14 days to deliver the package after you place an order. We offer Free International Shipping as long as we can ship your order by EMS. If you prefer other shipping carriers, please contact us.
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*Please keep in mind that due to the spread of COVID-19, there might be possible delays in delivery. If you like to make sure if EMS shipping is available to your country, please contact us.
【How to make sure the condition】
Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.
It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of Satsuma ware and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.
Would you like see some more Antique items for sale? Please check the link below. We hope you can find your favorite item.
https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product-category/antique/
