This is an authentic antique Japanese Imari (Arita) porcelain bowl dating to the Meiji Era (late 19th century). Originating from the historic kiln regions of Saga Prefecture, Japan, Arita porcelain is celebrated globally for its enduring mastery of cobalt glaze painting, which historically fascinated European royal collectors.
The interior showcases a hand-painted underglaze cobalt blue (sometsuke) central medallion depicting a classical coastal landscape. This scene features a prominent, gnarled pine tree with individually detailed pine needles, mountains, and traditional thatched-roof houses by the water. The white field incorporates two distinct artist or workshop signatures: an underglaze blue hand-painted stylized character mark (resembling 立) and an overglaze iron-red square seal stamp (reading 昭, Shō).
The exterior wall features large chrysanthemums painted in underglaze blue and overglaze iron-red (akae) enamel, accented with fine gold gilt borders around the petals. A secondary band of underglaze blue scrolling vines and floral sprays runs along the lower portion of the body toward the base. The underside reveals an unglazed, wide foot ring encircling a smooth, recessed white glazed center that contains a singular concentric blue ring line. The piece is finished with a distinctively lobed, scalloped rim that shows a repeating underglaze blue pattern along its top edge.
Item Specifications
- Culture / Area of Origin: Japanese / Arita (Imari), Japan
- Date / Age: Late 19th Century (Meiji Era, c. 1868–1912)
- Material: Porcelain
- Production Technique: Hand-painted underglaze blue, overglaze enamel, and gilt accents
- Rim Style: Scalloped / Lobed
- Top Diameter: 7.5 inches
- Foot Diameter: 5 inches
- Height: 2.5 inches
- Weight: 7 oz
Condition
Good antique condition with visible age-appropriate wear to the glaze, exterior decoration, and gold accents. Rubbing and slight fading are present on the gilt detailing. The unglazed foot rim shows minor kiln grit, discoloration, and small surface spots consistent with age and traditional firing methods. No structural cracks, chips, restorations, or repairs are visible on the base or body. Please examine all listing images closely to evaluate the exact surface condition and glaze properties.
Disclaimer
I am not an appraiser. All identifications regarding maker, materials, historical style, date, culture, and naming conventions are research-based opinions made entirely in good faith using the visible features of the item. Buyers are kindly encouraged to review all photographs carefully, do their own due diligence, and come to their own conclusions prior to bidding or purchase.