Small Japanese Edo Imari Bowl

Details

Description

This splendid Imari porcelain bowl, embellished with an elegant gilt-bronze mount, is a classic example of the eclectic 19th-century European … Read more This splendid Imari porcelain bowl, embellished with an elegant gilt-bronze mount, is a classic example of the eclectic 19th-century European (particularly French) taste for Orientalism.
Elegant Imari Porcelain Bowl with Gilt-Bronze Mount

Period: Edo Period (1603 - 1868) Bronze Mount: Napoleon III Materials: Japanese Imari-style porcelain, chiseled and gilt bronze
Item

Refined hemispherical porcelain bowl, decorated according to the Imari tradition with the typical "trilogy" color palette: underglaze cobalt blue, iron red, and touches of pure gold on a white background. The floral decoration is rich and meticulous, featuring large chrysanthemum and peony flowers, symbols of nobility and prosperity.
The Bronze Mount

The exceptionally valuable element is the gilded bronze structure, which elevates the object from a simple ceramic to a precious furnishing accessory:

Phoenix/Dragon-Shaped Support: The cup is supported by three finely chiseled supports in the shape of mythological creatures (stylized phoenixes or dragons), lending the object a sense of momentum and monumentality.

Upper Edge: The porcelain is crowned by a bronze ring with an architectural fretwork frieze and knurled edges, which finish the upper edge.

Interior: The structure is secured by a gilded central pin visible inside the bowl, typical of period mounts.

Condition

The object is in excellent overall condition. The porcelain shows no cracks or chips; the bronze gilding retains a beautiful luster with a natural patina that attests to its authenticity and age.

These objects were born from the desire of the European upper class to "Westernize" precious imported porcelain, transforming it into centerpieces or luxurious holders. The quality of the chiseling on the supports suggests high-end craftsmanship, likely Parisian.

Dimensions: width 18 cm, depth 18 cm, height 17 cm. All measurements refer to the frame. See less