Japanese Genroku Edo Period Imari Garniture of Vases, 1690, Set of 3

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A wonderful and rare three-piece Japanese porcelain garniture dating to circa 1690, during the Genroku period (1688–1704). Created for the … Read more A wonderful and rare three-piece Japanese porcelain garniture dating to circa 1690, during the Genroku period (1688–1704). Created for the European export market, the garniture comprises one baluster vase accompanied by two matching trumpet-shaped beaker vases. Although larger garnitures of five or more pieces are known, this group may originally have been conceived as a three-piece set. Each vase shares a harmonious decorative scheme executed in underglaze cobalt blue, appearing almost black in tone, together with overglaze iron red and gilt detailing. Stylised flowering plants are arranged across the bodies, complemented by vertical borders incorporating chrysanthemum flower heads within an abstract repeating pattern. This combination of bold floral ornament, deep cobalt, iron red and gilding is characteristic of Japanese porcelain produced during the Genroku period, an era associated with stability, prosperity and the flourishing of Japanese arts and culture. The baluster vase is accompanied by an antique wooden cover and stand, while the two beaker vases have matching stands. These wooden elements are later additions and are of Chinese origin. Japanese export porcelain became highly desirable among wealthy European aristocratic and royal patrons from the late 17th century onwards. Large porcelain vases and coordinated garnitures were particularly prized as decorative statements within grand houses and palaces and would have represented significant luxury purchases when first imported into Europe. The richly coloured and boldly patterned character of Japanese porcelain had a considerable influence on European taste. Japanese Imari and related export wares were subsequently imitated and reinterpreted extensively by European ceramic and porcelain manufacturers throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. A particularly attractive and increasingly rare surviving garniture of very early Japanese export porcelain, retaining all three complementary pieces and presented in excellent condition. Period Genroku Period (1688–1704) Date of Manufacture Circa 1690 Dimensions Baluster Vase: Height including stand and cover: 32 cm (12.5 inches) Diameter: 17 cm (just under 7 inches) Each Beaker Vase: Height: 20 cm (just under 8 inches) Maximum Diameter: 11 cm (4.5 inches) Please note: The antique wooden cover and stands are later additions of Chinese origin. See less