Antique Pair of Large Japanese Arita Imari Blue & White Porcelain Chargers

A superb pair of large antique Japanese Arita Imari blue and white porcelain chargers dating from the 19th century, beautifully hand painted in rich underglaze cobalt blue. Each impressive charger measures 46 cm (18.1 in) in diameter and features an exceptionally decorative garden scene filled with exotic birds amongst flowering branches, peonies, chrysanthemums, bamboo, foliage and rocky outcrops. Smaller birds perch amongst the branches above, while insects can be seen amongst the flowers, creating a wonderfully detailed composition that rewards closer inspection. The decoration is executed entirely in varying shades of cobalt blue against a warm white porcelain ground, with particularly fine attention given to the plumage of the birds, individual flower heads and sweeping branches. A simple blue line around the rim provides a restrained border to the elaborate central decoration. The reverse is also decorated in underglaze blue with stylised floral and foliate motifs and bears a Chinese-style character mark to the centre. Chinese marks and Chinese-inspired decoration were frequently employed by Japanese Arita potters, reflecting the considerable influence of earlier Chinese porcelain on Japanese ceramic production. The underside also displays characteristic firing and support marks associated with traditional manufacture. Although often referred to as Imari porcelain, these chargers are decorated solely in blue and white rather than the more familiar blue, iron-red and gilt Imari palette. Arita was the principal porcelain-producing centre, with much of its output historically exported through the nearby port of Imari, leading to the widespread use of the Imari name. Their unusually large scale and intricate decoration make this pair particularly striking decorative pieces. They would look magnificent displayed on stands on a console or sideboard, individually on opposing walls, or incorporated into a collection of antique blue and white porcelain. Date: 19th Century Origin: Japan, Arita Available for UK and international shipping.