Shiro Satsuma

Shiro Satsuma (白薩摩, "White Satsuma") refers to a highly refined type of Japanese pottery originating from the Satsuma Domain (modern-day Kagoshima Prefecture). It is known for its ivory-colored glaze, intricate polychrome enamel decoration, and distinctive fine crackle patterns (kannyū). Shiro Satsuma is one of the most esteemed forms of Japanese ceramics and gained particular fame in the West during the Meiji period (1868–1912).

History

The origins of Shiro Satsuma trace back to the early 17th century, when Korean potters were brought to southern Kyushu by the Shimazu clan following the Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598). These potters established kilns in the Satsuma Domain, producing a variety of ceramic wares.

Over time, three main categories of Satsuma ware emerged:

• Kuro Satsuma (黒薩摩, "Black Satsuma"): Rustic, dark-toned stoneware made from iron-rich clay. These wares were thick, sturdy, and used primarily for everyday or local purposes.
• Shiro Satsuma (白薩摩, "White Satsuma"): Made from refined white clay and covered with a translucent ivory glaze featuring fine crackle (kannyū). These pieces were produced for the ruling samurai class and aristocracy and often had elegant, understated designs.
• Export Satsuma (輸出薩摩): A later evolution of Shiro Satsuma, created specifically for the international market during the late Edo and Meiji periods. These items were highly decorative, densely painted with gold and colored enamels, and featured exotic or narrative scenes to appeal to Western tastes.

Characteristics

Shiro Satsuma is noted for its:

• Ivory-toned glaze: A warm, creamy surface with subtle transparency.
• Kannyū (crackle glaze): A hallmark feature consisting of an intentional network of fine surface cracks.
• Polychrome overglaze decoration: Commonly includes gold, red, green, and blue enamels.
• Motifs:

 * Noblewomen and courtiers
 * Religious figures (e.g. Kannon)
 * Nature (flowers, birds, landscapes)
 * Mythological and historical scenes (especially in Export Satsuma)

Techniques

The production process involves:

1. Shaping the vessel from refined clay.
2. Bisque-firing the piece to harden it.
3. Applying the ivory glaze and firing again.
4. Decorating with overglaze enamels and gold.
5. Multiple low-temperature firings to fuse the decoration layer by layer.

Each piece can take weeks to complete, particularly the highly detailed Export Satsuma works.

Export Era and International Fame

During the Meiji period, Shiro Satsuma underwent a transformation aimed at satisfying Western fascination with Japanese art. This gave rise to the subgenre known as Export Satsuma, which was showcased at world expositions, including:

• 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris
• 1873 Vienna World’s Fair
• 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia

This led to the global popularity of Satsuma ware. Notable export-era artists and studios include:

• Yabu Meizan (矢部米山)
• Kinkōzan (錦光山)
• Chin Jukan kilns (沈壽官)

Modern Context

Although traditional Shiro Satsuma production has declined, it remains a symbol of Japanese ceramic excellence. Antique Shiro and Export Satsuma pieces are now highly sought after by collectors and museums. In Kagoshima, some potters continue to preserve and reinterpret the tradition of Satsuma-yaki (薩摩焼).

Types of Satsuma Ware

Type	Description	Intended Use
Kuro Satsuma	Dark, rustic stoneware made from local clay	Daily, utilitarian use within the domain
Shiro Satsuma	Elegant ivory-glazed ware with crackle and fine decoration	Used by daimyō and nobility; ceremonial and display purposes
Export Satsuma	Lavishly decorated ware aimed at Western collectors; heavy use of gold and vivid imagery	Decorative art for export markets (Europe and North America)

See Also

• Kuro Satsuma
• Satsuma ware
• Japanese ceramics
• Meiji period export art
• Chin Jukan kiln