Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This monumental porcelain charger measures roughly 58 cm across and features vibrant underglaze blue enriched with overglaze enamels and gilt. The striking composition divides between Dutch figures with a horse and an imaginative 'Nanban' steam-paddle warship navigating stylized cresting waves.
Story
During Japan's sakoku period of seclusion, Dutch traders at Nagasaki ignited intense curiosity. This grand charger captures that fascination, blending traditional brocade borders with exotic foreign dress and a smoking steamship.
Maker / Origin
Produced by unnamed artisan workshops in the renowned Arita potting district of Hizen Province. These kilns supplied both elite domestic patrons and lucrative foreign markets with lavish polychrome porcelain known historically as Imari.
Condition & Value
The charger appears in very good condition with light surface wear, typical minor firing flaws, and spur marks visible on the reverse; no major chips or structural cracks are evident. Excellent preservation for such large-scale porcelain strongly supports value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.