Chinese Imari or Japanese?

[heavenguy]

Hello I got a question and maybe you guys can help me out with this one.

A friend and I have argue on this piece of "Imari" porcelain for quite some time now.

I say that is a recent Chinese Imari reproduction because of the colors, the kiln residue on the bottom, and it actually feels like a recent Chinese porcelain feel to it. My friend says is old because of the "orchid" mark on the bottom. So what is your thoughts on this one??? Thank you in advance for any information provided.

[Stan]

This is Fukagawa,  early 20th century I think.

[heavenguy]

Hey Stan,

Thank you for your reply. I guess I lost then... Lol!! I should feel happy because is a positive feedback but I had my doubts because it just seemed to good to be true. My initial thoughts were that it was Imari. I guy who also buys antiques for living told me it was Chinese at the cash register when I was purchasing it so he made me doubt. But I guess he was just jealous because I got to buy it. A friend was positive it was Imari too and he said it was probably early 20th too. I almost didn't buy it. Anywayz. Thank you for your reply.

[Stan]

This is a very nice Japanese circular lidded box, this could be late 19th century because of the sand on the bottom they did that at that time and the Fukagawa company was commissioned to work for the imperial house hold to make all their porcelain, the reason it is called Imari is because it was shipped out of the Imari port and took on the name so it could be called Imari. Fukagawa is also a town where they had several kilns, I believe that is where the name originated.

[heavenguy]

Thank you Stan. Great info.

That helps a lot... =)

Kudos to you Sir!!!