Japanese Kutani Porcelain Charger

This gorgeous round porcelain charger is Kutani ware from Japan, named after the village where it originated in the 1650's. This large piece was made in the mid 20th century; the porcelain is pure white with the designs in shades of blue. The central figure of a peacock is perched on a peony shrub that is filled with flowers in full bloom. The rim is trimmed in a blue band covered with geometric designs in gold. The charger is lavishly hand gilded, which is characteristic of Kutani wares; in fact, most Japanese gold leaf is produced in that area. Even the floating clouds are painted on with gold leaf.

The mark on the reverse of the charger is printed in red, a seal script version of "Kutani" in the Kaku (square) style. There is also a circular gold foil label which reads "TRADE MARK GENUINE KUTANI MADE IN JAPAN" along with some Japanese characters. Both date the charger from the 1950's or 1960's. Measuring 12 1/2 inches across, this dished charger is 1 1/4 inches high and weighs almost 2 1/2 pounds. It's in very good condition; there is light wear to the gold leaf but it is all intact and gleaming. There are no chips, cracks or stains and it displays beautifully.

The combination of a peacock and peonies is believed to bring good luck and good will to your home, a lovely thought for us all.

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