Imari-style Porcelain Ginger Jar and Bud Vase

Name: Imari-style Porcelain Ginger Jar and Bud Vase
Brand: petra
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Imari-style ceramic ginger jar and bud vase with orange, blue, and gold floral and bird patterns on a kitchen counter.

Average (4/10)

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

A pair of decorative ceramic objects, consisting of a lidded ginger jar and a single-stem bud vase, both adorned with vibrant, traditional Imari-style floral and bird motifs. The color palette predominantly features orange, blue, and gold detailing on an off-white ground. The ginger jar has a wider, rounded body with a short neck, topped by a domed lid with a gilded fnial. The bud vase features a spherical base tapering into a long, slender neck with a gilded rim.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

Japanese Arita ware17th century onwards

The original inspiration for Imari porcelain, known for its distinctive palette and intricate decorative patterns.

Chinese Export Porcelain18th-19th centuries

Chinese kilns produced many wares in the Imari style during the 18th and 19th centuries, adapting the Japanese aesthetics for Western markets.

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

European manufacturers, particularly during the 18th century, created their own interpretations of Imari patterns due to the high demand for Asian porcelain.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•Decorative display in homes, particularly in dining rooms or living areas, as symbols of refinement and global taste.
•Gift-giving for special occasions, especially for porcelain with intricate designs.
•Table settings for special events, providing an exotic or elegant touch to the presentation.

Meaning Through Time

17th-18th Century (Japan/Europe)

Highly prized luxury goods, symbols of wealth, status, and exotic taste, particularly among European aristocracy.

19th-early 20th Century (Global)

Collected as fine art and interior decoration, accessible to a broader affluent class, often reflecting an interest in 'Orientalism'.

Mid-20th Century-Present

Valued as collectible items; modern reproductions serve as accessible decorative accents, adding a touch of traditional elegance.

HISTORICAL STORY

Imari porcelain originates from Arita, Saga Prefecture, Japan, produced for export from the port of Imari. Developed in the 17th century, it is characterized by its distinctive palette, often featuring underglaze blue, overglaze red (iron red), gold, and sometimes green or yellow. While initially ...

DID YOU KNOW?

The distinctive color palette of Imari ware (red, blue, and gold) became so popular in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries that it inspired numerous 'Imari-style' reproductions by European manufacturers like Meissen and Crown Derby.

A traditional ginger jar, despite its name, was originally used to store and transport spices like ginger during ancient times in China, eventually becoming a popular decorative item in homes worldwide.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The ceramic surfaces are smooth and glossy, indicative of a glazed finish. The painted decorations appear to be overglaze, creating a slightly raised texture in areas with thicker pigment, especially the gold accents.

Weight & Feel

Likely light to moderate in weight, consistent with ceramic production, suggesting they are hollow rather than solid.

Condition

The user states the items are in 'Mint' condition. Visually, the glaze appears intact, and the painted motifs are vibrant with no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the gilding.