Ko-Imari Celadon and Underglaze Blue 'Boat-Pullers' Scalloped Charger

Story

Created in the historic kilns of Arita during the peaceful Edo period, this plate captures a moment of daily labor. The two figures are 'funahiki' (boat pullers), who walked the riverbanks pulling heavy cargo boats upstream against the current. This humble, hardworking scene is elevated to high art through the sophisticated pairing of Chinese-inspired celadon and classic Japanese blue-and-white porcelain.

Maker / Origin

While the specific workshop remains anonymous, this charger was produced in the legendary Arita region, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. During the mid-Edo period, Arita potters mastered the difficult technique of combining different glaze types on a single vessel.

Condition & Value

The charger appears to be in excellent antique condition with no obvious chips, cracks, or major restorations visible in the photos. There are typical minor kiln imperfections, such as tiny iron spots and glaze pops, which are characteristic of Edo-period production and do not detract from its value.