Japanese Arita Ware Kinran-de Imari Porcelain Plate

Edo period, early 18th century (c. 1720), Arita, Hizen Province, Japan

Magnificent high-quality kinran-de Imari porcelain plate with a gently flared rim and softly scalloped edge, beautifully decorated in underglaze cobalt blue and iron red with lavish gilt highlights. The center displays an elegant floral bouquet with red petals and blue-and-gold leaves, framed by a wide border adorned with finely painted flowering groups in the classic kinran (“gold brocade”) palette.

Imari ware (Imari-yaki) is the European term for the brilliantly coloured style of Arita porcelain produced in Hizen Province. Although made in Arita, these wares were shipped from the nearby port of Imari to Nagasaki, where they entered East–West trade networks via the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and Chinese merchants. In Europe, the richly enamelled red, blue, and gilt decoration became synonymous with “Imari,” inspiring widespread imitation by both Chinese kilns and numerous European factories.

Arita ware (Arita-yaki) encompasses all porcelain produced in the region, including the underglaze blue wares often distinguished in the West as separate from overglaze styles. In reality, the same kilns frequently produced multiple decorative traditions—Imari, Kakiemon, and Kutani among them.

The kinran-de style, characterised by its abundant gilding and vibrant enamel palette, was especially prized on the 18th–19th-century export market, where large vases, bottles, bowls, and plate sets were commissioned for European courts and aristocratic collections. This plate is a superb example of that celebrated golden Imari tradition.

Excellent condition. Intact. No damages, chip or nicks. Age-related light wear. Slightly faded gilt highlights. Size approx. 22,0cm x 22,0cm x 4,0cm. 

Provenance: Finnish private collection

References and further reading:

Japanese Art from the Gerry Collection in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Barbara Brennan Ford & Oliver R. Impey, Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1989. 

Edo-Period Japanese Porcelain, Anna Willmann, In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History, New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, April 2011. (https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/jpor/hd_jpor.htm)

Japanese Ceramics: A Brief History, Henry Trubner, Seattle Art Museum, Ceramic Art of Japan, 1972.