Royal Satsuma-style Geisha Ware Porcelain Hand Painted 18-inch tall Egg, China

Condition: Beautiful Satsuma-style Geisha Ware Porcelain Hand Painted 18-inch tall Egg in excellent condition. No damage. Very fine detailed depictions of Japanese scenes. Made in China for export to meet Western demand. 8.7 pounds. 18 inches tall. 10 inches in diameter.

Royal Satsuma-style Geisha Ware, particularly the hand-painted porcelain eggs, has a rich and intricate history rooted in Japanese and Chinese artistry. Here’s an overview:

### Origins

1. **Satsuma Ware**: Originally developed in the Satsuma region of Japan during the late 16th century, Satsuma ware is characterized by its distinctive crackled glaze and intricate designs, often featuring floral patterns and scenes of daily life, including geishas.

2. **Influence of Western Demand**: In the late 19th century, Japan opened up to Western trade, leading to increased interest in Japanese art and crafts. This demand influenced the production of Satsuma ware, as artisans began creating pieces tailored to Western tastes.

### Geisha Ware

1. **Geisha Representation**: Geisha ware specifically highlights the cultural significance of geishas in Japanese society. These pieces often feature detailed depictions of geishas in traditional attire, engaging in various activities such as playing musical instruments or participating in tea ceremonies.

2. **Hand-Painted Techniques**: The craftsmanship involved in creating Geisha ware is meticulous. Artisans hand-paint each piece, often using vibrant colors and gold accents to enhance the beauty of the designs. The attention to detail reflects the skill and dedication of the potters.

### The 18-Inch Tall Egg

1. **Symbolism**: The egg shape itself symbolizes new beginnings and fertility in many cultures, including Japanese culture. Such pieces are often used decoratively and may serve as collectors' items.

2. **Royal Satsuma Mark**: Many pieces, including the larger hand-painted eggs, may carry a mark indicating they are Royal Satsuma. This mark signifies a higher quality and a connection to the traditional techniques of Satsuma ware.

### Modern Collectibility

1. **Artisan Revival**: In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest in traditional Japanese ceramics, including Satsuma and Geisha ware. Collectors seek these pieces for their artistic value and cultural significance.

2. **Value and Rarity**: The value of Royal Satsuma-style Geisha ware can vary significantly based on factors such as age, condition, and the quality of the craftsmanship. Larger pieces, like the 18-inch egg, are particularly sought after.

In summary, Royal Satsuma-style Geisha ware represents a beautiful blend of cultural heritage, artistic skill, and historical significance, making it a cherished collectible in the world of porcelain and ceramics.

We are ship all items in bubble wrap inside a corrugated box. You are buying the Satsuma-style Geisha Ware egg as photographed in this listing; as is. We ship to eBay-verified addresses only. Please use the eBay message system for all communications. You will pay postage, which is estimated in this listing, unless the item is marked, “Free Shipping”. The shipping estimate was generated by the eBay shipping calculator plus special handling to insure the safety of the item.