Japanese Imari Porcelain

Known for its colorful, intricate style, Korean-inspired Japanese imari porcelain often features white and blue backgrounds accented with vibrant orange-red and brilliant gold. Imari is in direct contrast to the monochromatic, blue and white, Chinese-inspired Arita-style porcelain also popular in Japan.

Imari porcelain was first created in the 17th century in the town of Arita. When a Korean potter discovered that the soil was rich in kaolin, a type of clay essential to creating white porcelain, blue and white porcelain wares quickly emerged. Works are typically beautiful and intricate, featuring images of lush natural landscapes, elegant creatures, and serene depictions of everyday courtesan life.

The term "imari" is derived from the name of the port through which most of this particular style porcelain was traded. The Imari port was most heavily used during the 17th and 18th centuries. These porcelains include imari plates, imari vases, bowls, pots, cups, and even statues.

Quick Facts

• It wasn’t until the 18th century that red, blue, white, and gold imari porcelains were developed
• Japanese ceramic artists had difficulty competing with China in this field of export. China copied the imari china style of decoration and was able to export imari wares at a cheaper cost than Japan. Only toward the end of the 19th century did Japanese imari china become popular again in the Western market
• Yi Sam-Pyeong, the Korean potter who is said to have discovered the presence of kaolin in Japanese land, is a controversial historical figure. He said to have taken the Japanese name “Kanagae Sanbee” after his outstanding accomplishments in the porcelain medium
• Similar to imari porcelain, <a href=”https://www.invaluable.com/dresden-porcelain/sc-VJ9HCMZNEK/”>Dresden porcelain</a>, is also available on Invaluable.