Overview
A beautiful set of five lobed porcelain plates decorated in underglaze cobalt blue with a classic Chinese-style river landscape, featuring figures, pavilions, and distant mountains. The rims are finished with a delicate iron-brown glaze (kuchibeni), and the undersides are adorned with stylized bats and spur marks from kiln firing.
Story
Created in Japan during a nostalgic revival era, these plates feature apocryphal Chinese Qianlong reign marks in red and gold enamel. This playful nod to Chinese imperial porcelain was a common way for Japanese potters to honor classical traditions while appealing to sophisticated tea-masters and collectors.
Maker / Origin
While bearing apocryphal Chinese marks, these were crafted in the historic kilns of Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. The potters of this region spent centuries perfecting the balance of imported Chinese aesthetics with native Japanese sensibilities, creating a distinct hybrid style known globally as Imari.
Condition & Value
The plates appear to be in very good condition with no obvious cracks or large chips visible in the photos. There is minor wear to the gilt and red enamel marks, and typical manufacturing irregularities like kiln grit and spur marks on the bases, which are normal for historic Japanese porcelain and do not hurt the value.