Early Edo Japanese Arita Imari Porcelain Bowl and Cover, 1720s

Details

Description

A truly outstanding early 18th-century Japanese Arita Imari porcelain lidded bowl, dating to circa 1700–1740 and displaying exceptionally fine decoration. … Read more A truly outstanding early 18th-century Japanese Arita Imari porcelain lidded bowl, dating to circa 1700–1740 and displaying exceptionally fine decoration. Of substantial size at approximately 16 cm in diameter, the bowl was probably produced for the European export market. Comparable forms of early Japanese export porcelain can be found within important museum collections internationally. Both the bowl and its cover are richly decorated in the classical Imari palette of the period, combining deep underglaze cobalt blue with overglaze enamels, iron red and extensive gold gilding. The elaborate decoration incorporates sixteen-petalled chrysanthemum motifs together with peonies and other flowering plants, creating a dense yet carefully balanced composition across both the body and cover. Particularly notable is the survival of the gilding, which remains in remarkably fine condition considering the considerable age of the piece. The gold provides a rich contrast against the cobalt blue, iron red and white porcelain ground, giving the bowl considerable visual depth and brilliance. Japanese export porcelain became highly sought after among European aristocratic and royal patrons during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Fine Arita and Imari wares were displayed within stately homes and palaces and represented prestigious luxury objects when they first reached Europe. The distinctive combination of richly coloured enamels, deep cobalt blue and extensive gilding made Japanese Imari particularly desirable and had a significant influence on European taste for Asian porcelain and subsequent European ceramic production. Now approximately three centuries old, this beautifully preserved lidded bowl is an impressive example of early Japanese Arita porcelain, combining substantial proportions, elaborate decoration and exceptionally well-preserved gilding. Period Edo Period Date of Manufacture Circa 1700–1740 Dimensions Diameter: 16 cm (6.5 inches) Height: 15.5 cm (6.25 inches) See less