Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An exceptionally large, 46.3cm Japanese Imari porcelain charger featuring a central hand-painted medallion depicting a noble figure on horseback traveling past Mount Fuji. The wide, sloping rim is densely decorated with alternating fan-shaped panels of underglaze blue, overglaze iron-red, and lavish gold gilding, while the exterior displays a beautifully painted phoenix among clouds.
Story
During the late 19th century, Western collectors fell madly in love with Japanese 'Imari' porcelain. This massive charger depicts a noble traveler gazing at Mount Fuji, a classic poetic motif designed to bring the romance of old Japan directly to Victorian dining rooms.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece was crafted in the famed Arita region of Japan, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. During the Meiji era, local family kilns scaled up production to meet massive Western demand, combining traditional hand-painting techniques with a vibrant palette designed to dazzle international exhibitions.
Condition & Value
The charger appears to be in very good antique condition with no visible structural cracks or major chips. There is minor, expected wear to the gold gilding along the rim and some typical kiln dust specks on the underside from the original firing. Excellent preservation of the enamel colors.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.