Japanese Imari-style Decorative Plate

Name: Japanese Imari-style Decorative Plate
Brand: adeboer
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Japanese Imari style decorative ceramic plate with blue, red, gold, and green patterns, displayed in a cabinet. - view 1

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DESCRIPTION

A decorative ceramic plate, likely porcelain, featuring a rich, polychrome design characteristic of the Imari style. The plate is adorned with intricate patterns in blue, red, gold, and green, depicting landscapes with mountains and possibly figures, as well as floral and geometric motifs. It has a slightly scalloped or petal-edged rim, typical of many Imari wares.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Chinese Export Porcelain18th-19th Century

Chinese porcelain produced for export often adopted popular Japanese or European decorative styles, including variations of Imari, to meet market demands.

European Imari18th Century Onwards

Many European porcelain manufacturers, such as Meissen, Derby, and Worcester, created their own versions of Imari patterns due to its immense popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•Display as a decorative art object in homes, particularly in dining rooms or parlors, to showcase wealth and appreciation for East Asian aesthetics.
•Serving of special foods or ceremonial offerings in traditional Japanese contexts, although this plate's decorative style suggests primary use as a display item, especially if made for export.

Meaning Through Time

Late 17th - 18th Century

A symbol of exotic luxury and wealth in Europe, highly prized for its vibrant colors and intricate designs, often displayed in 'porcelain rooms' or cabinets.

19th - Early 20th Century

Continued to be a popular decorative item, often mass-produced for wider markets, signifying a taste for 'Oriental' art and craftsmanship.

Late 20th Century - Present

Collectible antique or vintage item, valued for historical craftsmanship, aesthetic appeal, and as a representation of intercultural artistic exchange.

HISTORICAL STORY

Imari ware is a style of Japanese porcelain named after the port of Imari, from which it was shipped to the West starting in the late 17th century. Originally produced in the Arita kilns in Hizen province, it became highly popular in Europe. The characteristic palette includes underglaze blue ...

DID YOU KNOW?

The distinctive red and gold palette of Imari ware was especially popular in Europe, where it deeply influenced local porcelain production, leading to companies like Meissen and Worcester creating their own Imari-inspired patterns.

True to its name, Imari porcelain wasn't made in Imari itself, but rather transported through the port of Imari after being produced in nearby kilns, primarily in Arita.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The surface is glossy and smooth, with raised enamel details giving a slight texture. The colors are vibrant and appear to be well-preserved over a white porcelain body.

Weight & Feel

Given its size and material (porcelain), it would likely feel fairly light but sturdy.

Condition

The plate appears to be in good condition with minor wear, consistent with typical handling and display. There are no obvious chips, cracks, or significant loss of enamel visible from the images. A price sticker is applied to the front surface.