Japanese Satsuma Style Bijin-ga Decorative Tray

This item is an oval-shaped ceramic tray or shallow dish, heavily decorated in a style characteristic of Japanese Satsuma porcelain. The central focal point is a 'Bijin-ga' (depiction of a beautiful woman), featuring a seated figure in a traditional elaborate kimono adorned with floral motifs in teal, red, and gold. The background consists of a cream-colored field with a distinct, fine 'crackle' glaze (crazing), which is a hallmark of Satsuma ware. Surrounding the central figure is an intricate border comprising repeating floral patterns and geometric 'moriage' (raised enamel) scrolling, rendered in a palette of navy blue, salmon pink, orange, and extensive gold gilding. The craftsmanship is indicative of mid-to-late 20th-century mass-market production intended for export, rather than a Meiji-period antique, as evidenced by the uniform application of the crackle glaze and the style of the hand-finishing over printed outlines. The condition appears fair to good with visible surface wear to the gold highlights on the rim and some minor discoloration within the crackle glaze, which is a common aging characteristic for this type of earthenware. No major chips or cracks are immediately visible from the front view.