A museum-quality and highly decorative masterpiece for the serious collector. A particularly beautifully decorated and monumental porcelain dish (diameter a staggering 35.9 cm) executed in the classic and refined Japanese Imari style. This dish, manufactured in the late 17th century (Edo period), is a magnificent example of high-quality export porcelain craftsmanship from the kilns of Arita. Decoration & Symbolism The dish features an elegant scalloped rim and is masterfully painted in the traditional palette of underglaze blue, overglaze iron red, and richly enhanced with gold leaf. Central decoration: A large, beautifully stylized chrysanthemum motif (Kiku), surrounded by a sleek double blue circle. Inscription / Cartouches: The broad rim is divided into alternating compartments and asymmetrical scenes, including finely detailed cartouches with peonies (Botan) and irises, which flow into a dynamic decoration of blooming plum blossoms (Ume) and a graceful weeping willow. Reverse: The outside is likewise carefully decorated with continuous floral branches, a spiral scroll band (Karakusa) just above the foot ring, and a refined floral motif in the center within a double blue circle. Museum References & Literature This specific model and decoration are highly regarded internationally and are documented in prominent collections and specialist literature: An identical example is part of the permanent collection of the Museo Civico Palazzo Toschi Mosca in Pesaro, Italy. This model is also described and illustrated in the standard work for collectors: Arts, P.L.W., Japanese Porcelain: A Collector’s Guide to General Aspects and Decorative Motifs (Lochem, 1983). Dimensions Diameter: 35.9 cm Height: 7.1 cm Weight: 2102 g Condition The dish is in beautiful, display-worthy condition for its age (approximately 300 years old). The glaze has a brilliant luster, and the goldwork and painting are exceptionally well preserved. Note: There is a slight, faint hairline crack present on the rim (see the last 2 detail photos. These 2 photos are from the same hairline front and backside.). This is a completely normal sign of age that does not detract from the structural integrity or the enormous aesthetic and historical value of this object. In short: A rare opportunity to add an impressive, documented piece of late 17th-century Japanese porcelain to your collection. An absolute eye-catcher. Your item will be carefully packaged and shipped with full track and trace for your peace of mind; local pickup is also warmly welcomed in Ekeren (Antwerp), Belgium.