Description: Vintage Japanese Satsuma Blue Dragonware Saucer.
The saucer was made in Japan, likely in one of the workshops in cities like Kyoto or Kobe, rather than the original Satsuma province, as "Satsuma" became a style rather than a strict geographic origin for export wares.
Many pieces were marked generically, sometimes just "Made in Japan," or with a studio name like Kinkozan or Choshuzan.
Date of Manufacture
Pieces like this, featuring extensive moriage decoration and a blue background, were mass-produced for export, particularly during two main periods:
Late Meiji to Taisho period (roughly 1890s to 1930s).
Occupied Japan period (19451951), as many pieces from this era were explicitly stamped "Made in Occupied Japan".
The mark on the base, featuring the red letters "S.K." above a floral design, is a maker's or decorator's mark from Japan. This type of red, overglaze mark is typical of Japanese export porcelain produced during the Taisho period (1912-1926) and the early Showa period (post-1926). The style of the mark is consistent with the era when items were often marked "Nippon" (1891-1921) or "Made in Japan" for export to the US and other countries, following the McKinley Tariff Act. The "S.K." mark likely falls into this period.
Did You Know?
The moriage technique is a traditional Japanese decorative method that creates the raised, three-dimensional texture you see on your saucer's dragon design. The name literally means "piling up" in Japanese. Moriage techniques have been used on Japanese pottery since as early as the 17th century, though the most well-known examples, like dragonware, are from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This style was specifically developed for the Western export market, which was captivated by the exotic and highly tactile nature of the designs. Your saucer falls into a specific category called "dragonware," where the moriage technique is used to form a detailed, scaled dragon that often wraps around the piece. The moriage technique adds significant visual and tactile appeal, making each hand-decorated piece unique.
Made in Japan, Circa 1920s.
Visible Flaws: Minor age-related wear.
Please view images for full condition, images from part of the description. I do not accept returns, and I do not offer Refunds, I clearly list flaws, as a buyer you are open to ask questions and you must ensure you have viewed the full condition of the item, before you purchase it. Photos are enlarged and lighting is enhanced to provide the best view of the listed item. Use of a ruler is recommended to familiarize yourself with the size. Your purchase is your confirmation that you agree with the condition and size of the item.
Approximate Dimensions: Diameter 13.5cm.
Price: R150.00. I am open to Reasonable Offers.
Shipping Options:
Pargo, my personal preference, best choice for bundling and fragile items. Paxi, if you are in an outlying area and this is the only option. Pudo, the fastest, used only for non-fragile items. Postnet, if you want your package insured against breakage (insurance at an additional cost). Personal collection @ PEP Sophiatown.
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