Antique Japanese Meiji Period Arita Imari Porcelain Reticulated Pedestal Compote Bowl Dai Nippon 8″

Description

This antique Japanese porcelain pedestal compote (tazza / footed centerpiece bowl) dates to the Meiji Period (1868–1912). Measuring approximately 6 inches in height by 8 inches in diameter, the vessel features a deep circular bowl with openwork pierced / reticulated oval cutouts along the vertical sides, elevated on a flared pedestal base. The exterior is decorated in rich underglaze blue and overglaze iron-red and yellow enamels with gilt accents, executed in the classic “prunus blossoms on cracked ice” (hyōretsu) pattern.

Key Design Elements & Markings:

• Exterior & Foot Decoration (Cracked Ice & Plum Blossoms):

  The outer bowl wall and pedestal foot are covered in an underglaze cobalt blue cracked-ice network adorned with vibrant overglaze iron-red, orange, and yellow plum blossom clusters (ume), symbolizing spring and renewal. The mid-stem is accented with enameled iron-red floral medallions and green foliate scrolls.

• Interior Center & Rim:

  The interior well is hand-painted in underglaze blue (sometsuke) with a landscape garden vignette featuring flowering botanical blooms. The inner rim is bordered by an iron-red and gilt geometric diaper and floral lozenge band framing the reticulated cutouts.

• Base Mark & Dating:

  The underside of the bowl flange features a square double-line underglaze blue cartouche mark inscribed:

  “Dai Nippon [Maker] Sei” (大日本…製 / Made in Great Japan).

  This export mark was used during the Meiji era prior to the implementation of English country-of-origin labeling regulations.