Meiji Period Japanese Imari Bowl Attributed to Fukagawa, Circa 1880

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Meiji Period Japanese Imari Bowl Attributed to Fukagawa, Circa 1880
Japan, 6.5" H x 12" Diameter

An exceptional Meiji-period Imari … Read more Meiji Period Japanese Imari Bowl Attributed to Fukagawa, Circa 1880
Japan, 6.5" H x 12" Diameter

An exceptional Meiji-period Imari porcelain bowl attributed to the esteemed Fukagawa studio, dating to the late 19th century. This deep, wide-form vessel is richly hand-painted in underglaze cobalt blue, iron red, and vibrant enamels, with extensive gilt embellishment.

The interior features a central medallion of chrysanthemums and foliage, surrounded by alternating reserves. The heart-shaped panels depict playful karashishi (Buddhist lion dogs) nestled among blooming peonies and stylized rocks—symbols of protection, prosperity, and longevity—framed with burnished gilt cloud scrolls and brilliant green foliage. The fan-shaped panels display stylized lotus or pomegranate blooms, auspicious motifs of fertility, abundance, and spiritual enlightenment, painted in red, green, and white against a stippled green ground.

The cobalt blue ground throughout is overlaid with an intricate gilt lattice pattern, adding depth and radiance. The exterior repeats these alternating motifs in harmonious symmetry.

The underside is finely decorated with a band of stylized petals and linked sacred jewel emblems, encircling an unmarked foot ring—typical of Fukagawa production during the Meiji era.

A superb collector’s example, this bowl exemplifies the decorative and symbolic richness of late 19th-century Arita porcelain. See less