Japanese Meiji Imari Potiches, Set of 2

Details

Description

An Elegant Pair of Japanese Imari Porcelain Lidded Vases

Estimated Period: Late 19th Century (Meiji Period)

This imposing and refined … Read more An Elegant Pair of Japanese Imari Porcelain Lidded Vases

Estimated Period: Late 19th Century (Meiji Period)

This imposing and refined pair of lidded vases embodies the essence of the Imari (or Arita-yaki) decorative style, the famous Japanese porcelain exported to Europe from the port of Imari starting in the 17th century and highly prized for its rich colors and intricate ornamentation.

Characteristics and Decoration

Material and Shape: Crafted from fine glazed porcelain, the vases feature a robust, ribbed, and slightly flared body, topped by a large, domed lid. The knob of each lid depicts a Phō dog.

Typical Color Palette: The decoration is executed in the classic, vibrant Imari three-color process:

Cobalt Blue (underglaze): Used for the outlines and some floral details.

Iron Red/Orange (overglaze): The dominant color for the background and floral motifs.

Gold: Used to enhance details and add brilliance (typical of the Kinrande - Imari style with gold decorations).

Ornamental Motifs: The surface is densely decorated with a mosaic composition, typical of the late style.

Main Body: The vase is adorned with large oval medallion reserves containing lush floral compositions in blue and orange/gold on a white background. The reserves are framed by a dense pattern of smaller floral motifs and honeycomb geometric patterns (Kikko motif) in orange, blue, and white.

Decorative Bands: The neck and foot feature register bands with stylized floral motifs, including a band at the base with a "petal" or spear design in cobalt blue.

Lid: The lid repeats the dense honeycomb and floral decoration, culminating in the zoomorphic knob.

Condition and Additional Details

Condition: Excellent overall condition, consistent with its age and use. The porcelain is in excellent condition, with a rich glaze and color.

Dimensions: Height 47 cm, width 21 cm See less