Plate
Unknown Artist
early 18th century
Medium
Porcelain decorated in polychrome and gold enamels (Arita ware, Imari style)
Dimensions
H. 2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm); Diam. 10 1/2 in. (26.7 cm)
Classification
Ceramics
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo period (1615–1868)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Harold G. Henderson, 1966
Accession Number
66.155.2
Art Historical Context
This elegant porcelain plate, crafted in Japan's Arita kilns during the early 18th century Edo period (1615–1868), the pinnacle of Imari-style ceramics. Measuring just 2¼ inches high and 10½ inches in diameter its shallow form was ideal for serving delicate foods or displaying as a decorative object. Produced in the Saga Prefecture's Arita region—famous for its high-fired porcelain using locally sourced kaolin clay—the plate is adorned with vibrant polychrome enamels and, featuring bold motifs typical of Imari ware, such as florals or landscapes in iron-red, cobalt blue, and shimmering gilding...