Japanese Imari Porcelain Lidded Box

JAPANESE IMARI PORCELAIN LIDDED BOX
Era: Vintage
Origin: Japan
Material: Porcelain with Polychrome Decoration

OVERVIEW:
A charming Imari-style porcelain lidded box featuring the classic color palette and decorative motifs characteristic of this renowned Japanese ceramic tradition. This decorative piece showcases the vibrant aesthetic and fine craftsmanship that has made Imari porcelain internationally celebrated for centuries.

SPECIFICATIONS:
• Diameter: Approximately 5 inches
• Height: Approximately 2 inches (with lid)
• Material: Fine porcelain with polychrome decoration
• Origin: Japan
• Period: Vintage
• Type: Decorative Lidded Box

DESIGN ELEMENTS:
• Decoration:
- Traditional cobalt blue, iron red, and gilded accents
- Floral and foliate patterns
- Geometric medallion designs
- Contrasting color panels
- Decorative scroll borders

• Artistic Features:
- Classic Imari color palette
- Symmetrical medallion design on lid
- Alternating decorative panel arrangement
- Balanced composition
- Fine detailed painting

• Technical Features:
- Hand-painted decoration
- Underglaze blue with overglaze enamel colors
- Well-fitted lid
- Smooth glazed surface
- Traditional porcelain construction

CONDITION:
Excellent Vintage Condition
• Vibrant, unfaded colors
• Intact gilding
• No chips or cracks
• Well-preserved decorative elements
• Clean, unmarked surfaces

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
This box continues the tradition of Imari porcelain, which originated in the Arita region of Japan in the 17th century. Named after the port from which it was shipped, Imari ware became one of Japan's most successful ceramic exports, influencing European porcelain production for centuries. Characterized by its cobalt blue underglaze combined with overglaze iron red and gold accents, Imari porcelain represents an important chapter in cross-cultural artistic exchange. Small decorative boxes like this one were produced for both domestic and export markets as collectible ornamental pieces.

DECORATIVE SUGGESTIONS:
• Display in a cabinet with Asian collectibles
• Use as an elegant jewelry or trinket box
• Accent piece for coffee table or bookshelf
• Part of a curated collection of porcelain boxes
• Decorative accent in traditional or eclectic interiors

COLLECTING NOTE:
Imari porcelain continues to be highly sought after by collectors worldwide. This vintage example offers the characteristic vibrant palette and intricate patterning that makes Imari distinctive, in a small, decorative form that complements both traditional and contemporary interiors. The enduring appeal of the Imari aesthetic has made these pieces timeless collectibles that connect to centuries of ceramic tradition.