19th Century Meiji Period Japanese Blue and White Imari Porcelain Bowl

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19th century Meiji period Japanese porcelain bowl is a classic example of Arita ware in the Imari tradition, beautifully rendered … Read more 19th century Meiji period Japanese porcelain bowl is a classic example of Arita ware in the Imari tradition, beautifully rendered in cobalt blue underglaze with hand-applied gold and iron-red accents. The bowl features a scalloped rim and a radial design composed of alternating landscape and floral panels, divided by intricate borders and geometric patterns. At the center, a delicate motif of birds and plum blossoms is framed by stylized bamboo and pine branches, all carefully outlined in gilt for added visual depth.

6" x 2"

The color palette—predominantly cobalt blue with touches of gold and iron-red—is typical of early to mid-Meiji era Imari porcelain, drawing from centuries-old traditions rooted in Japan’s Edo period. The refined brushwork and intricate design reflect the high standards of Arita kilns, known for their crisp porcelain bodies and masterful painting techniques.

On the underside of the bowl is a four-character hand-painted mark in blue: 大日本製 (Dai Nippon Sei), which translates to "Made in Great Japan." This mark was commonly used during the Meiji period (1868–1912), when Japan began actively exporting its porcelain to Western markets. The phrase “Dai Nippon” was a patriotic reference to Japan as a modern, unified empire, and porcelain pieces marked in this way are typically associated with higher-quality wares intended for export.

The combination of traditional Japanese motifs—plum blossoms for renewal, pine for longevity, and cranes or birds for peace—with Western-influenced symmetry and finish makes this bowl both culturally significant and visually timeless. See less