Japanese Imari-style Decorative Plate

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

Japanese Imari-style decorative ceramic plate with blue, green, and brown patterns, featuring a landscape in the center, displayed on a black stand. - view 1

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

A small circular decorative plate, likely made of ceramic or porcelain, featuring a detailed hand-painted design in the Imari style. The central motif depicts a classic Japanese landscape with mountains, pine trees, and perhaps a building, rendered in shades of blue and white. The border features intricate patterns in blue, brown, and green, interspersed with floral medallions and geometric designs, often accented with gold. The plate is displayed on a black stand.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Chinese porcelain17th-19th centuries

The use of blue and white landscapes, intricate border patterns, and production for export influenced and was influenced by Chinese porcelain traditions, especially Jingdezhen wares.

European ceramics (e.g., Meissen)18th-19th centuries

The popularity of Imari led to European manufacturers creating their own 'Japanische Porzellan' or 'Imari' patterns, adapting colors and motifs to European tastes.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•Display as art object: Many decorative plates, especially export wares, were intended for display in homes as symbols of luxury and appreciation for exotic aesthetics.
•Gift-giving: Fine porcelain plates were often exchanged as valuable gifts among the elite.

Meaning Through Time

17th-18th Century

In Europe, Imari porcelain represented exoticism, wealth, and sophisticated taste, as it was a rare and costly import from Japan.

19th-early 20th Century

Mass production and improved trade made Imari-style accessible to a broader middle-class audience, shifting its perception from exclusive luxury to a decorative household item.

Late 20th-21st Century

Contemporary collectors value Imari for its artistic merit, historical significance, and craftsmanship, with earlier and rarer pieces commanding high prices, while later reproductions are appreciated for their decorative qualities.

HISTORICAL STORY

Imari ware originated in the Arita region of Hizen province (present-day Saga Prefecture) in Japan, named after the port of Imari from which it was shipped. It became highly popular in Europe from the late 17th century, known for its bold, often asymmetrical designs and vibrant palette of iron ...

DID YOU KNOW?

While often characterized by its distinctive iron red, cobalt blue, and gold palette, Imari ware encompasses a wider range of styles and colors depending on the specific period and kiln.

The popularity of Imari porcelain in Europe led to widespread imitation, with manufacturers in places like Germany (Meissen) and England (Chelsea, Derby) producing their own versions to meet demand.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The surface is glossy and smooth, characteristic of glazed ceramic or porcelain. The painted details exhibit some textural variation from the brushwork, particularly the raised gold accents.

Weight & Feel

Likely lightweight to moderate, typical for a ceramic decorative plate of this size.

Condition

The plate appears to be in good condition with minor wear, consistent with user input. No obvious chips, cracks, or significant loss of paint or gilding are visible in the provided images.