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Hi,
I have this pretty Satsuma box. I have no information about it. I think the decor is symbolic. Could someone explain to me the meaning of this decor? And could you identify the mark ? Is it from the Meiji period or more modern ?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Kind regards, Frédéric S.

I have no idea about the symbolic meaning of the decor.
The mark is just simply saying Satsuma: 薩摩.
Regards,
Martin.

I believe the symbolism is a little bit "tongue in cheek", the lid is what's known as a Momento Mori, that is a piece that reminds one of the inevitability of death however the inside of the case is (obviously) an erotic scene. Scenes like this were popular in Japanese art in the Edo & Meiji periods.
My guess is that it was either meant to be a reminder of death but not without some fun on the way OR...
The Momento Mori was on the lid so as to put most people off looking at it in order to hide the "dirty" little secret inside.
As with all art, the interpretation is in the eye of the beholder.

Thank you very much Aaron and Martin for your explanations, I appreciate.
Best regards
Frédéric S.

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