Japanese Arita Blue and White Sometsuke Charger

Story

During the 19th century, Japanese potters captured the poetic concept of 'Kachoga'—flower and bird painting—on porcelain. This charger depicts wild geese descending under a autumn moon, a classic literary metaphor for seasonal transition and longing.

Maker / Origin

The kilns of Arita are the birthplace of Japanese porcelain, beginning in the early 17th century after kaolin clay was discovered nearby. While early production focused on imitating Chinese styles, by the 19th century, Arita workshops had perfected a distinctly Japanese aesthetic characterized by dynamic asymmetrical compositions and rich, deep cobalt blue tones.

Condition & Value

The charger appears to be in good antique condition with typical manufacturing flaws of the era, including minor iron spots (black specks in the glaze), glaze pops, and kiln grit on the foot rim. There is light surface wear consistent with age, but no major chips or cracks are immediately visible in the photos.