Japanese Arita Blue and White Porcelain Charger, Shoki Imari Style

Story

Seventeenth-century Japanese potters fell in love with Chinese design, creating a hybrid style that took the world by storm. This charger features a classical Chinese beauty wandering through a garden of scholar's rocks, a scene meant to evoke intellectual refinement. The poetic inscription on the reverse suggests this was made for a highly literate, appreciative collector.

Maker / Origin

The kilns of Arita, located in Saga Prefecture, are the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Beginning in the early 17th century after kaolin clay was discovered nearby, these workshops developed techniques that rivaled Chinese imperial wares. While early pieces were made for domestic use, Arita soon became a global powerhouse, exporting vast quantities of 'Imari' ware to European royalty.

Condition & Value

The charger appears to be in good antique condition with no obvious structural cracks or major chips visible on the front. There is typical manufacturing wear, including minor iron spots, glaze pitting, and kiln grit consistent with historic Arita production. Excellent preservation of the cobalt blue pigment.