Japanese Satsuma-style Porcelain Tea Set

Name: Japanese Satsuma-style Porcelain Tea Set
Brand: eveline
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Japanese Satsuma-style porcelain tea set with hand-painted figures, floral motifs, and gilded accents - view 1

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Ordinary (3/10)

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

A porcelain tea set comprising a teapot, lidded sugar bowl, creamer, and three cups with matching saucers. The pieces feature intricate hand-painted designs in a Satsuma-like style, characterized by a creamy white ground, vibrant polychrome enamels in shades of orange, red, blue, and gold accents. The decoration includes figural scenes (likely geishas or court figures) within landscape settings, as well as floral motifs (chrysanthemums or peonies) and geometric patterns. The handles and finials are often gilded or painted in a rich red/orange color.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Chinese Export Porcelain18th-20th Century

Similar to how Japanese Satsuma-style ware was produced for Western tastes, Chinese porcelain kilns had a long history of creating export goods that blended traditional motifs with designs appealing to European and American markets.

European Chinoiserie17th-19th Century

The aesthetic influence of East Asian decorative arts, including porcelain, on European design led to the popular 'Chinoiserie' style, which incorporated fanciful interpretations of oriental motifs into Western interiors and objects.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•The ritual of tea drinking, particularly in a formal or ceremonial setting, would have been the primary use for such a set.
•Display and decoration within a domestic setting, showcasing the owner's taste for exotic and finely crafted imported goods.

Meaning Through Time

Meiji Period (late 19th - early 20th Century)

These tea sets were symbols of exoticism and luxury in Western households, reflecting a fascination with 'Oriental' culture and craftsmanship.

Mid-20th Century

Became popular collectible items, particularly amongst those interested in Asian art and ceramics, or simply seeking decorative antiques.

HISTORICAL STORY

Satsuma ware originated in Japan during the late 16th century, though the highly decorated, export-oriented style with detailed figure scenes, often referred to as Satsuma-style, became popular in the Meiji period (1868-1912). These pieces were produced for Western markets and are known for their ...

DID YOU KNOW?

Despite its name, much of what is commonly called 'Satsuma ware' from the late 19th and early 20th century was produced in various kilns across Japan, particularly Kyoto and Yokohama, often specifically for export.

The characteristic fine crackle glaze of Satsuma ware was often achieved by varying the firing temperatures and clay compositions, and was sometimes intentionally enhanced for aesthetic appeal.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The surface is characterized by a glossy, creamy white or ivory glaze, often with a fine crackle pattern visible upon close inspection. The painted areas are smooth to slightly raised where enamels and gilding have been applied in detailed relief.

Weight & Feel

Given the material is porcelain, the pieces would feel relatively lightweight for their size, with the teapot and sugar bowl having a moderate heft due to their volume, while the cups and saucers feel delicate.

Condition

The set appears to be in good overall condition, with vibrant colors and intact gilding visible. Some minor wear to the gold accents and possibly some small firing imperfections or age-related crazing might be present but are not clearly discernible from the images.