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ID #SA1222020
FOR SALE
£500
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Pair of Hirado Mikawachi Porcelain Inkwells with Chrysanthemum Decoration, C.1850-1880
For sale by Ritas Bazaar
for sale €585     $635
£500

Ritas Bazaar

Sellingantiques Verified Since Nov 2025
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Id #SA1222020
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Pair of Hirado Mikawachi Porcelain Inkwells with Chrysanthemum Decoration, C.1850-1880

19th century
For Sale by Ritas Bazaar
Description

A rare and attractive pair of Hirado porcelain inkwells dating to the late Edo or early Meiji period, c.1850–1880. Retaining their original porcelain reservoirs and covers, these elegant desk accessories demonstrate the technical sophistication of Mikawachi porcelain production. The bodies are decorated in underglaze cobalt blue against a brilliant white porcelain ground. Applied chrysanthemum flowers form richly sculptural covers, displaying the painstaking handwork associated with the finest Hirado wares.

Produced in Nagasaki Prefecture under the patronage of the Hirado domain, Mikawachi porcelain became internationally admired during the 19th century for its purity of body, refined decoration and exceptional craftsmanship.

Surviving examples are uncommon, while complete matching pairs are particularly difficult to acquire. Their combination of decorative appeal and historical interest makes them highly desirable collector's pieces.

Dimensions:

Inkwell A: Height 6.5 cm, length 10 cm, width 9 cm, weight 235 g.

Inkwell B: Height 7 cm, length 10 cm, width 9 cm, weight 220 g.

Condition:

Minimal, almost imperceptible losses to a few chrysanthemum leaves. Several very minor manufacturing firing cracks, barely visible. Otherwise in excellent antique condition.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.

Physical Dimensions
Height
7cm (2.76")
Width
10cm (3.94")
Depth
9cm (3.54")
Declaration

Ritas Bazaar has dated this Hirado Porcelain Inkwell Pair to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1222020
Dealers Internal Reference
B1795
Description
A rare and attractive pair of Hirado porcelain inkwells dating to the late Edo or early Meiji period, c.1850–1880.
“
Retaining their original porcelain reservoirs and covers, these elegant desk accessories demonstrate the technical sophistication of Mikawachi porcelain production.
Ritas Bazaar

The bodies are decorated in underglaze cobalt blue against a brilliant white porcelain ground. Applied chrysanthemum flowers form richly sculptural covers, displaying the painstaking handwork associated with the finest Hirado wares.

fig 1. A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids.
fig 1. Pair of Hirado Mikawachi Porcelain Inkwells with Chrysanthemum Decoration, C.1850-1880

Produced in Nagasaki Prefecture under the patronage of the Hirado domain, Mikawachi porcelain became internationally admired during the 19th century for its purity of body, refined decoration and exceptional craftsmanship.

fig 2. A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids.
fig 2. Pair of Hirado Mikawachi Porcelain Inkwells with Chrysanthemum Decoration, C.1850-1880

Surviving examples are uncommon, while complete matching pairs are particularly difficult to acquire. Their combination of decorative appeal and historical interest makes them highly desirable collector's pieces.

fig 3. A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids.
fig 3. Pair of Hirado Mikawachi Porcelain Inkwells with Chrysanthemum Decoration, C.1850-1880

Dimensions:

Inkwell A: Height 6.5 cm, length 10 cm, width 9 cm, weight 235 g.

Inkwell B: Height 7 cm, length 10 cm, width 9 cm, weight 220 g.

Condition:

Minimal, almost imperceptible losses to a few chrysanthemum leaves. Several very minor manufacturing firing cracks, barely visible. Otherwise in excellent antique condition.

fig 4. A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids.
fig 4. Pair of Hirado Mikawachi Porcelain Inkwells with Chrysanthemum Decoration, C.1850-1880

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.

Height
7cm (2.76")
Width
10cm (3.94")
Depth
9cm (3.54")
Date of Manufacture

Ritas Bazaar has dated this Hirado Porcelain Inkwell Pair to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1222020
Dealers Internal Ref
B1795
Ritas Bazaar
Sellingantiques verified Since Nov 2025
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Ritas Bazaar Profile Page

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A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids.
1 / 14
Archive I A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids.

Pair of Hirado Mikawachi Porcelain Inkwells with Chrysanthemum Decoration, C.1850-1880

Archive II A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View II
Archive III A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View III
Archive IV A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View IV
Archive V A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View V
Archive VI A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View VI
Archive VII A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View VII
Archive VIII A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View VIII
Archive IX A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View IX
Archive X A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View X
Archive XI A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View XI
Archive XII A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View XII
Archive XIII A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View XIII
Archive XIV A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids. View XIV
Enlarged Archival View

Ritas Bazaar
Telephone 07434 626011
Location
Hertfordshire
United Kingdom
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/ritasbazaar
Verified Since Nov 2025
Items For Sale 258
Items Sold 46
Ritas Bazaar
Verified Since Nov 2025
View Dealer Info
Location: Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
Profile: sellingantiques.co.uk/ritasbazaar
Verified
Nov 2025
For Sale
258
Sold
46
A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids.
Pair of Hirado Mikawachi Porcelain Inkwells with Chrysanthemum Decoration, c.1850-1880
Ref: SA1222020
A pair of Japanese Hirado porcelain inkwells featuring fluted bases, underglaze blue decoration, and three-dimensional chrysanthemum motifs on the lids.
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Archival Detail

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectInkwells
  • Period19th century
  • StyleJapanese Meiji Period
  • MaterialPorcelain, Cobalt Glaze
  • ColourBlue and White
  • MotifsChrysanthemum flowers, Relief moulding, Fluted rim, Underglaze cobalt brushwork
  • SizeH 7 cm (3 in) x W 10 cm (4 in) x D 9 cm (4 in)

These 19th-century Japanese Meiji period inkwells are formed from white porcelain finished with underglaze cobalt blue brushwork and relief moulding. Each piece features a fluted rim on a sculptural base, decorated with applied three-dimensional chrysanthemum flowers on the covers and subtle blue painted motifs across the body. The design includes original porcelain reservoirs and covers, showcasing detailed handwork in blue and white against a brilliant white ground. Minimal losses to a few chrysanthemum leaves and very minor manufacturing firing cracks are present, consistent with age and excellent antique condition. Measuring 7 cm high, 10 cm wide, and 9 cm deep, these desk accessories suit placement on an office desk or within a gentleman's library. They add historical interest and traditional Japanese craftsmanship to a workspace, functioning as practical stationery items while serving as display pieces for a collection of fine ceramics.

FAQs

Hirado ware, produced in the Mikawachi kilns of Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its high-grade white body, precise underglaze cobalt blue brushwork, and sculpted relief details. Originally reserved for official use by the Matsura clan, production expanded to export wares during the late Edo and Meiji periods.

These inkwells were formed using pure white kaolin clay, decorated with cobalt oxide for underglaze blue designs, covered with a clear feldspathic glaze, and fired at high kiln temperatures to create a vitrified porcelain surface.

Authentic pieces exhibit exceptionally smooth, white porcelain paste, sharp crispness in moulded or sculpted high-relief details, and refined, soft-edged cobalt blue decoration beneath a smooth clear glaze. Un-glazed foot rings will appear fine-grained rather than rough.

Place a pair of porcelain inkwells on an executive writing desk, atop a stack of hardcover books, or inside a glass display cabinet to add texture, historical craftsmanship, and classic blue-and-white accents to modern study spaces.

Dust regularly with a dry, soft-bristled brush to remove accumulation around raised relief elements. Wash gently using tepid water and mild liquid detergent if required, avoiding chemical cleansers or immersion in water if internal felt or metal fitments are present.
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