Royal Satsuma Plate Value Guide

This Royal Satsuma plate is a prime example of early 20th-century Japanese export earthenware, distinguished by its intricate peacock and floral motifs. Its collectible appeal lies in the labor-intensive moriage technique and the fine crackled glaze that defines the Meiji-era transition into high-decorative art.

What Is Royal Satsuma Plate Worth?

The typical price range for Royal Satsuma Plate is $100 - $120 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The condition of the gold gilt, as significant rubbing or loss of the metallic finish can decrease the $100-$120 valuation.
• The complexity of the peacock and floral scene, with more densely packed compositions commanding higher prices.
• Structural integrity, specifically the absence of chips or deep staining within the porous earthenware body.
• The precision of the hand-painted enamel work, particularly the fine lines in the peacock feathers and floral petals.

How to Identify Royal Satsuma Plate?

• Look for the characteristic cream-colored earthenware base with a fine, uniform crackle glaze across the surface.
• Examine the 'moriage' decoration, which should feel like raised, three-dimensional enamel piping on the floral and peacock details.
• Verify the presence of heavy gold gilt application that remains vibrant, a hallmark of pieces produced for the 1900-1920 export market.
• Check the underside for kiln marks or 'Royal Satsuma' branding, though the quality of the hand-painting is the primary indicator of authenticity.

History of Royal Satsuma Plate

Satsuma ware is a type of Japanese earthenware originating from the Satsuma Province in southern Kyushu. Production began in the late 16th century, primarily focusing on simple, robust pottery. However, from the mid-19th century onwards, especially during the Meiji period, Satsuma ware transformed into a highly decorative export commodity, characterized by its fine crackled glaze, elaborate polychrome enamels, and extensive gold decoration, often depicting intricate scenes with figures, birds, and flowers. The term "Royal Satsuma" often refers to pieces of particularly high quality or those made for export, though it is not an official designation from a specific kiln.