Description/Abstract/Artist Statement
Japanese Satsuma ware ceramics from the Meiji Period are an example of how artisans appeal to their buyers' preferences. Developed as a means to establish Japan as a contender within the global art scene, Satsuma ceramics was quickly picked up as a favorite by collectors in the West. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Westerners became obsessed with Japanese art after being exposed to exhibitions at World Fairs. The Japanese government took note of this and promoted the production of ceramic workshops specializing in Satsuma ware. Scholars often discuss whether this hindered the opportunity for artisans to work within their own traditional styles. It is also questioned if a traditional ceramic style existed in Japan during this time because workshops were so focused on exporting their works and satisfying the western taste. Regardless, Satsuma ware is important to study because it shows the evolution of taste and its driving force in the craft art world. This paper focuses on the history of Satsuma ware and its relevance to Japan's development in the global art scene. By looking at the local collection of Satsuma ware in the Hermitage Museum and Gardens in Norfolk Virginia, perspective can be placed on the importance of collecting Japanese art to Western art enthusiasts during this time.
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Agnieszka Whelan
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Department
Art History
College Affiliation
College of Arts & Letters
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Disciplines
Asian Art and Architecture
Session Title
Art History Session 3 - Art History in Action
Location
Learning Commons @Perry Library, Room 1306
Start Date
3-30-2024 12:00 PM
End Date
3-30-2024 1:00 PM
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Satsuma Ceramics and the Importance of Export Craft in Japan
Learning Commons @Perry Library, Room 1306
Japanese Satsuma ware ceramics from the Meiji Period are an example of how artisans appeal to their buyers' preferences. Developed as a means to establish Japan as a contender within the global art scene, Satsuma ceramics was quickly picked up as a favorite by collectors in the West. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Westerners became obsessed with Japanese art after being exposed to exhibitions at World Fairs. The Japanese government took note of this and promoted the production of ceramic workshops specializing in Satsuma ware. Scholars often discuss whether this hindered the opportunity for artisans to work within their own traditional styles. It is also questioned if a traditional ceramic style existed in Japan during this time because workshops were so focused on exporting their works and satisfying the western taste. Regardless, Satsuma ware is important to study because it shows the evolution of taste and its driving force in the craft art world. This paper focuses on the history of Satsuma ware and its relevance to Japan's development in the global art scene. By looking at the local collection of Satsuma ware in the Hermitage Museum and Gardens in Norfolk Virginia, perspective can be placed on the importance of collecting Japanese art to Western art enthusiasts during this time.