Meiji Period Satsuma Vase Value Guide

Meiji Period Satsuma Vases are iconic examples of Japanese craftsmanship, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted figural scenes and luxurious gold leaf application. These earthenware pieces became highly sought after during the late 19th century as Japan's export market flourished, captivating Western collectors with their detailed enameling.

What affects the value of Meiji Period Satsuma Vase?

• The presence and preservation of original gold leaf and moriage decoration significantly impact the $225-$250 price range.
• The complexity and artistic quality of the hand-painted figural scenes, with more detailed faces and garments commanding higher prices.
• Physical condition, specifically the absence of chips, cracks, or significant wear to the delicate enamel work.
• The presence of a verifiable maker's mark or artist signature from the 1868-1912 period.

How to Identify Meiji Period Satsuma Vase?

• Look for a yellowish or cream-colored earthenware body with a fine, crackled glaze characteristic of Satsuma production.
• Examine the surface for raised 'moriage' gilding, which provides a three-dimensional texture to the gold accents.
• Check the base for authentic Meiji-era marks, often featuring the Shimazu family crest (a cross within a circle) or the artist's signature.
• Identify detailed figural scenes or landscapes executed in polychrome enamels that reflect traditional Japanese life or mythology.

History of Meiji Period Satsuma Vase

Satsuma ware originated in the 16th century in the Satsuma Province of Kyushu, Japan. During the Meiji period, these wares were heavily exported to the West, where their intricate gold leaf and detailed enameling captivated European and American collectors, leading to a golden age of Japanese pottery production.