How do I identify Japanese imari from British copies?

Japanese pieces typically rely on porcelain bodies made in Arita, featuring hand-painted iron-red and cobalt blue underglaze decoration from the Edo or Meiji periods. British versions from factories like Royal Crown Derby or Spode often use bone china or earthenware bodies with distinct factory marks stamped or painted on the base.

What periods do these ceramic vessels cover?

The selection spans from seventeenth-century Arita wares up to early twentieth-century Edwardian and Showa period productions. Most examples date from the nineteenth century. Meiji period pieces from Japan and Georgian or Victorian items from British potteries form the largest portion of the available range.

How were incense burners used historically?

Koros functioned as traditional Japanese incense burners designed for burning aromatic woods or resins during ceremonies or daily domestic life. Their pierced covers allowed scented smoke to drift freely while keeping the burning material contained safely within the porcelain body.

Are all imari vessels made of porcelain?

While the majority of Japanese pieces use hard-paste porcelain, European factories utilised alternative ceramic compositions. Listings include bone china, earthenware, and ironstone alongside traditional porcelain bodies, depending on the maker and the period.

Home > Imari Ceramic Vessel > Page 3

Imari Ceramic Vessel

39 items · page 3 of 3

← Page 3 of 3 →

An imari ceramic vessel brings rich iron-red, cobalt blue and gilt palettes into a room, combining centuries of Japanese and European design traditions.