A Fine Japanese ceramic Satsuma tea cup and saucer with rich floral decoration, marked Kōzan 幸山, Meiji period (1868-1912)

Satsuma ware refers to a style of Japanese pottery that originated in the Satsuma province during the late 16th century. Initially, Satsuma pottery was primarily simple and utilitarian in nature, but it later evolved into highly decorative and ornate pieces, particularly during the Meiji period (1868-1912).

One distinctive feature of Satsuma ware is the use of richly colored enamels, often with gold accents, to decorate the surface of the pottery. These decorations are meticulously applied by skilled artisans and may cover the entire surface of the piece or be concentrated in specific areas.