Browse a selection of Satsuma pottery ware in this booth display.
Satsuma ware is a type of pottery from present-day Kagoshima Prefecture, formerly the Satsuma Domain. It developed in the late 16th century, through the skills of Korean potters brought to Japan. It is generally divided into two types: White Satsuma and Black Satsuma.
White Satsuma (Shiro Satsuma) is known for its ivory-coloured body, fine painting and gold decoration, giving it a lavish appearance. Originally produced for the lords of the domain, it gained international recognition in the 19th century.
Black Satsuma (Kuro Satsuma) is characterized by its dark clay and robust form. It is used for everyday items such as tea bowls and storage jars, made with functionality in mind.
About the Satsuma Domain
The Satsuma Domain was one of Japan’s most influential domains during the Edo period (1603–1868), corresponding to present-day Kagoshima at the southern tip of Kyūshū island. It was one of Japan’s most influential domains, ruled by the Shimadzu family. Rice cultivation was challenging due to the spread of volcanic ash from Sakurajima. Instead, sweet potato farming became widespread and a culture of producing shōchū, a spirit typically distilled from sweet potatoes, flourished.
During the Edo period (1603–1868), while Japan remained largely closed to the outside world, Satsuma maintained a distinctive outward-looking stance through trade with the Ryūkyū Kingdom (present-day Okinawa prefecture) and limited contact with Europe.
Satsuma was a driving force in the overthrow of the shogunate and played a central role in the Meiji Restoration of 1868. Leaders such as Saigō Takamori held key positions in the new government and became iconic political figures.
Support from : Araki Tōyō kiln, Black satsuma ware Jirōta Kiln, Chin Jukan, Hioki Nanshū kiln, Ryumonji-Yaki Potters’ Union, Kagoshima-ken Satsumayaki Kyodokumiai