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Imari Shell Dish

Artist Unknown

Date1868-1912

PeriodMeiji Period

MediumPorcelain, Underglaze blue and overglaze enamels

Dimensions8 1/4 × 9 13/16 × 1 3/16 in. (21 × 25 × 3 cm)

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineBequest of John Ringling, 1936

Object numberSN7048.a

This shell-shaped dish is also an Arita-Imari piece, in this case made by the Seiji Kaisha (The Company of the Pure Water). The company was established in 1879 by members of four potter families from Arita. Seiji Kaisha lasted until about 12 years and made Western-style dinnerware both for domestic and export markets. Imari plates were frequently non-circular, formed into the shape of shells, leaves, fans, and even elaborately dressed women. These plates were likely produced during the Meiji period, which was a time of great change within Japan when the government encouraged Westernization of its people and increased trade and industrialization across the country. The Seiji Kaisha provided porcelain for the Imperial Court and the Ministry of the Imperial Household.

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