decorated with cranes, animal, buildings, flowers and foliage, 9" diameter, 5 1/2" deep, excellent...........During the 17th and early 18th century Japanese porcelain became increasingly popular in Europe and significant amounts of Japanese porcelain was exported to Western countries, mostly by the Dutch East India Company. Japan opened trading to Europe and America at the start of the Meiji period (1868-1913). During this period the Japanese porcelain industry centered around the city of Arita. The largest nearby port was called Imari, through which porcelain wares were exported. Wares are therefore known as Imari or Arita. ​​Imari ware can be difficult to date. Earlier Japanese ceramics for export were often unmarked, although pieces from the more established kilns may be signed by the artist and/or their patron's name. After 1868 and during the expansion of porcelain production for export, it is therefore very common to find unmarked pieces. From 1891 exports to America required that items were marked with the country of origin. However this did not apply to other countries - so whilst wares were increasingly marked, unmarked pieces were still common. ​

excellent