Japanese Shoki Imari Plover and Waves Dish

Description

(AI Generated)

Shoki-Imari Blue and White Dish

• Classification: Shoki-Imari (Early Imari)
• Origin: Arita Kilns, Hizen Province, Japan
• Date: Early Edo Period, circa 1630–1650
• Material: Porcelain with underglaze cobalt blue decoration (sometsuke)

Technical Description:

An authentic 17th-century, molded Japanese porcelain dish. The piece is decorated in a deep, “inky” natural cobalt blue (gosu) featuring a landscape with birds and stylized clouds, showing the characteristic “heaping and piling” effect. Two sides have molded, embossed waves in the traditional presentation. The glaze is a thick, milky, blue-grey tone, typical of the early production period at Arita before the refinement of the hakuji (pure white) style.

One additional example of this form was located, but no additional information was available:

Size:

6.25 inches by 4.25 inches

Diagnostic Evidence of Age:

• Glaze & Bubbles: The glaze surface shows random, varied bubble structures consistent with 17th-century kiln conditions. In areas of high wear, these bubbles have become exposed, creating the micro-pitting expected in authentic Early Edo wares. The glaze and/or clay has multiple, small ion inclusions.
• Wear Patterns: Overall glaze wear is consistent with nearly 400 years of age and handling.
• Kiln Characteristics: The base exhibits visible kiln grit (sunabana) and a relatively small, thick-walled foot ring, indicating it was fired before the widespread use of protective saggars.

Condition Report:

The dish is in remarkably good condition for its age. There is no structural damage, cracks, or chips. Surface inspection reveals one notable deep, linear scratch on the rim, likely from a metal utensil or historical handling, which does not compromise the integrity of the piece.

SAFETY NOTICE