Outstanding Japanese Imari Charger Koi Carp

This is an outstanding 19th century Japanese Imari charger in perfect condition dating from around 1870. The fine porcelain charger is beautifully hand painted with a really wonderful work of art depicting large Koi carp in a river with very clever use of perspective that draws the eye into the painting. The fish have such realism with the winding river leading away from the eye and the accompanying boardwalk going off into the distance. The painting includes classic Japanese iconic detail with prunus blossom overhanging and beautiful tall blue irises in the foreground. The geisha ladies are attractively dressed in traditional costume with beautiful hand gilded kimono with red ironstone highlights, with their hair set in the traditional Japanese styling. This is a truly beautiful example with great style and quality and is ready to hang with its original wire cage to the reverse. The charger bears the original factory backstamp to the work which indicates the manufacturer. While it is very hard to make out, this is highly likely to be Arita ware from the Hizen region of Japan manufactured during the Edo period. Perfect condition, no damage or restoration. The charger is a fine size with great impact in any situation measuring 46.5 cms in diameter. UK insured packing and delivery is £25