Japanese Satsuma Bowl Signed By Tanaka, With Thousand Flowers And Thousand Butterflies, C 1880

Magnificent Japanese Satsuma Bowl, Thousand Flowers and Thousand Butterflies Decoration, Meiji Period (c. 1880)

A superb Japanese Satsuma earthenware bowl dating from the Meiji period, circa 1880. The piece is signed with the characters 薩摩製 (Satsuma-sei) and 田日光 (Tanaka Nikko), suggesting attribution to an independent master named Tanaka working in or near the Nikko region. Stylistic analysis and the nature of the signature suggest with a high degree of probability that this piece was produced by an independent, high-quality workshop focused on export markets, operating outside direct Shimazu patronage.

The bowl is elegantly crafted with a scalloped, petal-shaped rim and richly decorated both inside and out. The exterior is hand-painted in the celebrated “Thousand Flowers” (Hyakka-mon) pattern, featuring dense clusters of chrysanthemums in red, blue, green, gold, black, and lilac, all highlighted with delicate raised gilding. The presence of deep cobalt gosu blue pigment, highly prized by collectors, further enhances the desirability of this piece.

The interior is decorated in the intricate “Thousand Butterflies” motif, showing a vibrant cloud of butterflies in gold, red, orange, blue, and black over a finely cross-hatched background. Each butterfly is individually detailed, creating a vivid, animated visual effect. Subtle gold dusting and enamel accents add richness and depth to the design.

The base bears a red and gold Satsuma mark alongside the Shimazu crest, although stylistic evidence points to production outside direct Shimazu commission. The result is a vibrant and masterfully executed object, representative of the finest Meiji-era export wares.

Historical Background

Satsuma ceramics rose to prominence during the Meiji period (1868–1912) for their intricate hand-painted decoration, lavish gilding, and technical artistry. The “Thousand Flowers” and “Thousand Butterflies” patterns are among the most sought-after motifs, symbolising abundance and transformation. The use of gosu blue pigment is associated with the highest quality Satsuma exports and significantly enhances the collectability of a piece.

Measurements

Weight: 408 g
Height: 6.2 cm / 2.44″
Diameter: 15.5 cm / 6.10″

Condition

Excellent antique condition. A 1 cm area of paint loss is present on the interior (as shown in the photographs). No chips, cracks, or restoration. Enamel and gilding remain vibrant and largely intact.

Shipping & Packaging

• Fully tracked and insured delivery.
• Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling, and postage.
• Carefully packed using recycled materials.
• Customs paperwork provided where necessary for smooth international delivery.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the description, and feel free to ask any questions.