Vintage Japanese Soko China Satsuma-Style Pheasant Plate, c.1930s

A finely decorated vintage Japanese Soko China Satsuma-style plate, dating to the early Showa period, likely circa 1930s. Although compact in size, the plate features a richly detailed hand-painted composition with a colourful pheasant standing beside a stream beneath autumn maple branches and delicate pink blossoms.

The pheasant’s plumage, the surrounding flowers and the warm red-orange maple leaves are enhanced with fine gilt outlines, while the gently scalloped rim is finished with a delicate gold edge. A characteristic craquelure glaze adds further depth and texture to the softly toned earthenware body.

The underside bears Soko China Hand Painted Satsuma markings with a small gilt seal.

Details

Item: Decorative cabinet plate

Maker / Trade Name: Soko China

Associated Mark: 湊光, read as Minato Hikari or Hikaru

Origin: Japan

Date / Period: Early Showa period, likely circa 1930s

Material: Glazed earthenware pottery

Style: Japanese Satsuma-style ware

Mark: Soko China Hand Painted Satsuma mark with gilt seal to the underside

Decoration: Hand-painted pheasant beside a stream, autumn maple branches, pink blossoms, floral motifs and gilt detailing

Diameter: 10 cm

Condition

Excellent vintage condition with no chips, cracks or repairs. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Soko China was a westernised trade name associated with Japanese decorative Satsuma-style wares produced during the early Showa period. The name is linked with the mark 湊光, read as Minato Hikari or Hikaru. Despite the use of the word “China”, pieces of this type were commonly made from glazed earthenware pottery rather than porcelain.

This small cabinet plate is particularly attractive for its detailed pheasant composition, seasonal maple leaves and refined gilt accents. Its compact size makes it well suited to display on a small stand, within a cabinet or as part of a collection of early 20th-century Japanese decorative ceramics.

All items are vintage or antique and may show light signs of age. Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.