Description From our Japanese Satsuma collection, we are delighted to introduce to the market this Japanese satsuma vase by Okamoto Ryozan. The earthenware vase of tapered form bordered with simulated bamboo is beautifully hand painted in the iconic ryozan style with a large landscape scene depicting a flowing river shadowed with mountains in the rear with a traditional Japanese building and multiple bijin with their children. The scene is covered with cherry blossom (Sakura) and multiple blossoming flowers including Camellia (Tsubaki) and Cosmos (Kosumosu). The rear panel is decorated with twin Oriental turtle doves stood upon a willow branch with further blossoming flowers. The panels are bordered by various geometric patterns, shapes, motifs and flowers with gilt lining. The Satsuma vase dates to the Japanese Meiji period (1868-1912) and is signed to the base Ryozan for the highly acclaimed Okamoto Ryozan. Provenance Private asian collection More about the maker OKAMOTO RYOZAN Okamoto Ryozan (亮山), born Nakamura Tatsunosuke, was one of Japan’s most respected Satsuma decorators of the Meiji period. Trained by the Kyoto master Nishimura Zengoro, he later became Head Artist at the Yasuda Company. His works are admired for their refined brushwork, balanced composition, and subtle colour palette, making Ryozan’s name synonymous with the highest standards of Kyoto Satsuma ware. For further information see our makers and retailers page on Okamoto Ryozan (亮山) and the Yasuda Company. MORE ABOUT THE 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. CONDITION Excellent Condition 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. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. 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. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.
