Ming Dynasty Chinese Vases

Hello,

The circle with a cross that often makes up a part of the Satsuma pottery base mark is the Shimazu family crest. They ruled Satsuma Han.

:)

I'm no expert, just a student myself....I've been researching some of my pieces..

It is named after the Satsuma provinces, but was made in many parts of Japan, notably in Kyoto.

Japanese sources suggest the Satsuma pottery tradition dates from the 17thC, but firm identification of any pieces earlier than the 19thC is difficult.

Kilns were established in the Satsuma area in southern Kyushu by Korean potters in the late 16th century.

The first and very earliest wares are the rarest of the rare and were stonewares covered with a thick dark glaze.

During the mid 19th century the pottery that today, is recognized as satsuma pottery ware was created. Some of the finest pieces of Satsuma pottery were manufactured c1900

It is a slightly yellowish earthenware. It’s glaze has a fine crackle and it does not ring when tapped.

Decoration, was sometimes carried out by a second workshop and varies from mass-produced broad designs to exquisite miniature scenes finely enamelled and gilded.

Satsuma wares were first developed in the Satsuma Han and produced, mostly for export to the West, in cities such as Kyoto, Tokyo, Nagoya and Yokohama.

It really depends on the wear and age reflected in your pieces...age always shows..I'm not an appraiser but they are lovely! I would suggest researching your pieces. I hope I've been able to give you a bit of help :)

It's late 19th to early 20th century, here's a link for you to the makers marking for "Kozan"..http://gotheborg.com/marks/satsuma.shtml