Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite 18th-century Japanese Imari porcelain charger featuring a central medallion with a flower basket (*hanakago*) surrounded by bold, hand-painted panels of peonies and foliage. The vibrant palette relies on underglaze cobalt blue paired with rich overglaze iron-red enamel and delicate gilding. Flip it over, and you see distinct spur marks on the base—hallmarks of authentic early kiln firing.
Story
In the late 17th century, Japanese potters in Arita captivated European aristocrats with fiery red and cobalt ceramics. This charger features a classic flower basket design crafted specifically to dazzle Western grand dining halls.
Maker / Origin
Crafted by skilled, anonymous artisans in the Arita region of Japan, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. These potters perfected the technique of multi-stage firing to create porcelain strong enough for export across the globe via Dutch East India Company trading ships.
Condition & Value
Visually presents in wonderful condition with minor gilding loss consistent with age. Slight firing flaws and visible spur marks on the underside confirm period manufacture rather than modern reproduction.
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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.