A finely painted Japanese small Satsuma bowl produced in Kyoto during the Meiji period, circa 1880–1895. This elegant cabinet piece belongs to the refined group of Kyoto export Satsuma wares created for the Western luxury market and is distinguished by its delicate figure painting, intricate gilding and restrained decorative balance.

The bowl is of delicate lobed form with a finely scalloped rim, a shape associated with refined Kyoto Satsuma workshops specialising in luxury cabinet wares. The interior is decorated with a detailed Hanami scene – the traditional Japanese custom of cherry blossom viewing – showing elegantly dressed aristocratic figures and attendants within a flowering garden landscape. The composition is arranged within a fan-shaped reserve, a characteristic feature of high-quality Kyoto decoration.

Particularly impressive is the small-scale painting, with faces, kimono details and ornamental patterns executed using extremely fine brushes, delicate polychrome enamels and extensive hand-applied kin-de nanako style gilding. The surrounding ground is enriched with dense carpet-like nanako-style gold dotting, creating a shimmering jewelled surface across the interior.

Unlike later heavily overloaded export Satsuma wares, this bowl retains the refined balance and visual restraint associated with earlier Kyoto production. The crackled underside bears a painted two-character mark reading 梅山 (Baizan), likely a decorator’s mark.

Executed in traditional high-quality Japanese earthenware with a warm ivory-toned body and fine natural crackle glaze, this is a fine example of Meiji-period Kyoto Satsuma intended for collectors and display rather than everyday domestic use.

Measurements

Diameter: 10.5 cm
Height: 5 cm
Weight: 187 g

Condition

One extremely fine glaze/enamel line visible only under magnification and not penetrating through the body. Otherwise excellent antique condition with very well-preserved gilding and enamel decoration. The display stand shown in the photographs is not included.

Shipping & Packaging

Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling and secure postage.
Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.

Please study all photographs carefully as they form part of the description and feel free to ask any questions.