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Beautiful Antique Japanese Imari Porcelain Saucer – Ø 18.6 cm - 19th Century (Edo / Meiji)
€59,95
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This refined antique Imari saucer is a superb example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship from the historic Arita region. The piece is hand-painted and features a highly detailed, symmetrical floral design. At the center of the saucer is an elegant medallion, surrounded by spokes in a fan pattern that are richly filled with chrysanthemums, pine branches, and delicate blossoms.
Guaranteed authenticity and tangible craftsmanship
What distinguishes this particular piece from later reproductions is the exceptional, tangible quality of the painting. The color palette is executed in the prestigious Kinrande-style: a deep base of underglaze cobalt blue, combined with vibrant iron red and abundant accents of liquid gold leaf. In the close-ups, the hand of the master is clearly visible; the gold and enamel lie on the porcelain as a subtle relief and are drawn with a fine brush.
What distinguishes this particular piece from later reproductions is the exceptional, tangible quality of the painting. The color palette is executed in the prestigious Kinrande-style: a deep base of underglaze cobalt blue, combined with vibrant iron red and abundant accents of liquid gold leaf. In the close-ups, the hand of the master is clearly visible; the gold and enamel lie on the porcelain as a subtle relief and are drawn with a fine brush.
On the back is the ultimate proof of age: an authentic, square impressed mark (glaze-filled) that was pressed into the moist clay before firing. This type of mark, in combination with the natural patina on the unglazed foot ring, supports a solid dating in the 19th century (Late Edo or Meiji period). The subtly scalloped edge is finished with a refined gold border, making this marked saucer a beautiful and valuable collector's item.
Historical context
The origin of this type of porcelain lies in the city of Arita, located on the Japanese island of Kyushu. When suitable porcelain clay (kaolin) was discovered in the mountains around Arita in the early 17th century, Japanese ceramic art flourished at an astonishing pace. Because the workshops were located inland, all valuable porcelain was transported to the nearby port town of Imari to be loaded onto ships. European merchants (including the Dutch VOC) became acquainted with the porcelain through this port, which made the style known worldwide as 'Imari ware'.
This particular saucer is executed in the Kinrande-style (which literally means 'brocade of gold'). This style developed at the end of the 17th century specifically to meet the taste of the European nobility, who were fond of pronounced luxury. The rich gold accents were fired onto the glaze during a separate, third firing. This created the characteristic relief on the porcelain. A technique that bears witness to the masterful and time-consuming craftsmanship of the Japanese artisans of the 19th century to this day.
Specifications
- Product: Antique saucer
- Origin: Japan (Arita region)
- Style: Imari / Kinrande
- Material: High-quality hard porcelain
- Technique: Fully hand-painted (underglaze cobalt blue, overglaze iron red and gold leaf with a tactile relief)
- Period: 19th century (Late Edo / Meiji period)
- Marks: Provided with an authentic, glaze-filled square impressed mark in the base
- Dimensions: Ø 18.6 cm
- Condition: Excellent antique condition. Very light, age-appropriate wear to the gold, consistent with its age (no chips, cracks, or hairlines).
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How can I be sure that this saucer is genuinely antique and not a modern replica?
Its authenticity can be traced back to two crucial characteristics. Firstly, the painting (the gold and iron red) was applied thickly with a brush, while modern replicas use flat transfer printing (decals). Secondly, the underside contains an impressed blind stamp from the 19th century. Modern 20th-century export pieces almost always have a red or blue overstamp with text such as "Made in Japan".
What does the square on the back of the saucer mean?
This is an authentic blind stamp (impressed mark) that was pressed into the damp clay by the potter before firing. Because the glaze flowed thickly over it during the firing process, the original mark is subtly 'filled in'. This is a characteristic and sought-after detail in high-quality 19th-century porcelain that increases its collector's value.
What is the best way to clean this object?
Due to the delicate, antique gold leaf on the glaze, we strongly advise against putting the saucer in the dishwasher or using harsh soaps. Carefully dusting with a dry, soft cloth or occasionally using lukewarm water without soap is sufficient.
Is this fragile object shipped safely?
Absolutely. At Antiekhuys.nl, we take great care in packaging and shipping unique, delicate antiques.