Antique 19th Century Meiji Japanese Blue & White Porcelain Takarabune Boat Dishes, Set of 2

Details

Description

A pair of antique Japanese blue and white porcelain serving dishes dating from the Meiji period (1868–1912), each modelled in … Read more A pair of antique Japanese blue and white porcelain serving dishes dating from the Meiji period (1868–1912), each modelled in the distinctive form of a traditional Japanese Takarabune, or “Treasure Ship.”

Hand-painted in underglaze cobalt blue, the interiors feature atmospheric Japanese landscapes with mountains, trees, waterside dwellings and small figures travelling by boat. Although forming a pair, the decoration is individually painted, giving each dish subtle variations in composition and brushwork.

The boat-shaped bodies are particularly attractive, with raised sides bordered by a continuous stylised cloud motif, a pointed prow and a small projecting element decorated with a geometric flower. Further freely painted decoration appears around the exterior.

The Takarabune, or Treasure Ship, occupies an important place in Japanese folklore and is traditionally associated with the Seven Lucky Gods, who were believed to arrive aboard the ship at the beginning of the New Year, bringing good fortune and prosperity.

Boat-form porcelain dishes of this type were produced in Japan during the Meiji period, particularly within the traditions of Arita and Imari porcelain. Their unusual sculptural form makes this pair equally appealing as functional serving pieces or decorative objects.

The undersides show unglazed foot areas and expected signs of age and use. Both dishes remain beautifully decorative.

Dimensions, each approximately:
Length: 18 cm
Width: 7 cm
Height: 4.5 cm
Weight: approximately 217 g

Period: Meiji, 1868–1912
Origin: Japan
Material: Porcelain
Decoration: Hand-painted underglaze blue See less