How do I identify Meiji period pieces?

Meiji period items often date between 1868 and 1912, corresponding to the reign of Emperor Meiji and an explosion of export-quality decorative arts. Look for distinctive stylistic markers like dense flora, fauna motifs, cloisonne enamel work and signature panels on the reverse or base.

What is the difference between Imari and Satsuma?

Imari refers to porcelain wares typically decorated in strong underglaze blues, rusty reds and gold, known for their ringing resonance and hard body. Satsuma describes earthenware pieces with a creamy, crackled glaze that provides a textured canvas for elaborate pictorial scenes.

Are these plates meant for food?

Most antique decorative dishes and chargers from this era were created purely for ornamentation and display rather than practical utility. Using them for dining can risk damaging delicate overglaze enamels, gold leaf and historical porcelain bodies.