Satsuma

(present-day Kagoshima Prefecture, southern Kyushu, Japan)

Locally the Satsuma name covers many types of wares, but internationally Satsuma ware is primarily known for its pieces elaborately decorated with colourful enamel and gold overglaze designs that suited late-nineteenth and early-twentieth century tastes 

Late 16th century        Start of production during the Azuchi–Momoyama period (1573–1603). During Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s incursions into Korea, in which the Shimazu family member ruling over Satsuma province was an active participant, many Korean potters were taken prisoner and brought to Satsuma.

18th centuries             Enamel colours start to be used, competing with Imari style – a technique the potters learned in Kyoto

1855                           Construction of Iso Oniwayaki kiln (by the lord of Satsuma, Shimazu Nariakira); production is focused on export

1867                           The Shimazu family exhibits Satsuma ware at the Exposition Universelle in Paris; the products become a popular export article

From the mid-19th century   Production focuses on export goods for the U.S. and European markets; wares are also produced in workshops in the Kyoto region, in Tokyo, Yokahama, Tokyo, Yokahama, Seto, Saga, Kobe, Nagoya, and the island of Awaji

1873                            Participates in the Vienna World’s Fair

1893                            Participates in the World’s Fair in Chicago (JMI)