Dish (2) - Porcelain

Japan's Imari – Rare pair of scalloped-edged plates with a vase on a terrace – Porcelain – Edo period (c. 1700–1730)

Specifications

Object: Pair of scalloped plates / deep bowls

Origin: Japan (Arita)

Period: Edo period, Genroku / early 18th century (c. 1690–1730)

Material: Porcelain with underglaze blue, iron red, green enamels and gold accents

Dimensions: Diameter approx. 21 cm; height approx. 3.5 cm

Weight: approx. 700 g (together)

Description
A handsome and attractive pair of 18th-century Japanese Imari export plates with scalloped edges, produced in the famed kilns of Arita during the Edo period.

The central medallion depicts a balustrade/terrace with an ornamental vase filled with blooming chrysanthemums (kiku) and peonies. The broad field is divided into a harmonious pattern of radial cartouches with stylized floral scrolls and large blossom heads in vivid iron red and gold, alternating with diamond motifs and deep cobalt blue.

The exterior is decoratively painted with branches of blossoms in iron red on underglaze blue twigs. The underside shows an unglazed foot ring and the characteristic proen imprints (hari-ato), typical of the stacking/warehousing process of early Arita porcelain.

Condition report

Condition: Very good for age (about 300 years old).

Restorations: None or hidden repairs detected

Cracks/hairlines: No cracks or hairlines; both plates ring clearly when tapped.

Surface: A few light, period-appropriate kiln pinpoints/iron pinpoints in the glaze and subtle uniform wear on the gold along the outer edge. Glaze and enamel decorations are bright and well preserved.