Chinese Imari Style Large Porcelain Charger

Story

During the 17th century, civil war in China halted porcelain exports, allowing Japanese 'Imari' wares to dominate global trade. When Chinese kilns recovered, they began producing their own 'Chinese Imari' to win back European merchants.

Maker / Origin

While individual artisans in Jingdezhen rarely signed export-style wares, they worked in highly specialized workshops where one vessel might pass through dozens of hands. One master would throw the clay, another paint the underglaze blue, and a third apply the delicate overglaze red and gold enamels.

Condition & Value

The face of the charger shows vibrant enamels with minor surface wear and light rubbing to the gilt highlights consistent with age. No major cracks or chips are immediately visible from the front, but the reverse must be inspected for hairline cracks or professional restoration, which would reduce the value by 30-50%.