Satsuma Pottery

The image displays the distinctive circular 'cross in a circle' mark, which is the crest (mon) of the Shimazu clan, the historical rulers of the Satsuma province in Japan. This mark is synonymous with Satsuma-ware, a type of Japanese earthenware pottery that originated in the late 16th century.

Traditionally, Satsuma pottery is characterized by its cream-colored or ivory crackle glaze and elaborate polychrome and gold decorations. The specific mark shown is often found on the base of pieces produced in the Kagoshima region. While many workshops and kilns have produced Satsuma-ware over centuries, the Shimazu family crest remains the primary indicator of its regional and historical origin. Today, while vintage pieces are highly sought after by collectors, traditional kilns in Japan continue to manufacture these items using time-honored techniques.