Large Antique Japanese Meiji Period Imari Porcelain Charger Marked Wanshan Zao

Description

Late 19th C. large, decorative Japanese Imari plate featuring intricate hand-painted designs in blue, red, and gold. The central motif … more Late 19th C. large, decorative Japanese Imari plate featuring intricate hand-painted designs in blue, red, and gold. The central motif includes blue floral patterns with accents of red geometric shapes and cranes in flight, symbolizing longevity and good fortune in Japanese culture. The plate likely dates to the Meiji or late Edo period. Surrounding the foot rim, there are additional bands of blue and floral details.

The back of the plate displays a three character mark 玩山造 (Wanshan Zao), indicating its origin. The raised dots on the underside are spur marks. These small, raised areas are a result of the firing process. Ceramic pieces were placed on small stilts or spurs inside the kiln to prevent them from sticking to the surface during firing. Once the piece was fired and cooled, the spurs were removed, leaving behind these raised marks. This method was especially prevalent in the production of larger plates and chargers, such as those from the Arita kilns, which produced many Imari pieces.

Dimensions:
21"dia x 3.5"h

Condition:
Good. Scattered surface scratches consistent with age and use. No other condition issues observed." less