Yabu Masashichi: The Prince of Satsuma Porcelain Yabu Masashichi (1853-1934), born Masashichi Yabu in Nagoya, Japan, stands as a pivotal figure in the history of Japanese ceramics and artistic patronage. Revered as “the prince” of Satsuma ware painting—a term coined to honor his unparalleled mastery—he wasn’t merely a craftsman; he was an innovator who revitalized a tradition facing decline while simultaneously establishing it as a globally recognized art form. His legacy continues to inspire collectors and scholars alike, cementing his place among Japan's most influential artists of the Mei…