Collection Online as of May 17, 2022
Dish with Ginkgo Leaves
染付銀杏唐花文皿
Japan, Edo period
(1615-1868)
Porcelain with underglaze blue (Hizen ware, Nabeshima type)
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 2017.61
Location
235A Japanese
Fun Fact
The ginkgo's distinctive fan-shaped leaf is a symbol of longevity and endurance in Japanese art.
Description
This dish is an example of the finest type of Japanese porcelain, Nabeshima-type Hizen ware. It has a complex, abstracted design of ginkgo leaves and “Chinese grasses” (karakusa) in underglaze blue that may be among the most interesting of the underglaze blue designs. The dish is the largest of the three standard-sized Nabeshima dishes for individual servings.