Lot 309: A large Imari porcelain charger, Meiji period (1868-1912)

A large Japanese Imari porcelain charger, decorated in a traditional palette of underglaze blue, iron-red enamel, and green highlights. The central circular medallion depicts a floral spray with a large red flower and blue foliage, bordered by a blue ring with red and white scroll motifs. The surrounding cavetto is divided into sections by radiating blue and red bands. The large panels feature a “Three Friends of Winter” (Sho Chiku Bai) motif, showing stylized pine trees (matsu), bamboo stalks (take), and plum blossoms (ume) amidst rocky landscapes. Interspersed between these are smaller circular medallions containing stylized floral or grassy motifs against a white ground. The composition is typical of Arita export wares, characterised by its dense, compartmentalised decoration. The reverse of the charger is not visible, and the front bears no visible maker’s signatures or inscriptions.