A huge Japanese plate served up an amazing result at our recent auction at our Penzance saleroom, writes Charles Hanson
A huge Japanese plate served up an amazing result at our recent auction at our Penzance saleroom, writes Charles Hanson
Talk about a statement piece.
Modern mythology has it that today’s houses are just not built for the grandeur of traditional antiques.
The lack of formal dining rooms has put paid to gracious large tables, while new builds’ smaller walls mean dramatic artworks are out of fashion.
It seems the buyer of this monumental Japanese Imari charger didn’t get the memo.
And I am so thrilled he didn’t because he has acquired what, in some antiques parlance, is called a “bobby dazzler”.
Bought by a private collector from Leicestershire, it sold for £1,050 – more than doubling its pre-sale estimate of £200-£400.
It dates to Japan’s Meiji period (1868–1912) and was consigned for sale by a Cornish owner from Penryn.
I was delighted when it attracted strong bidding thanks to its immense scale, lavish decoration and outstanding visual impact.
Imari ware takes its name from the Japanese port of Imari, from which brightly decorated porcelain was exported to Europe from the 17th century onwards.
Produced mainly in the Arita region of Japan, it became hugely fashionable among wealthy Western collectors and was prized for its vibrant colours and intricate hand-painted decoration.
Large chargers like this one were especially fashionable in Victorian Britain, often displayed above fireplaces or hung dramatically in entrance halls and dining rooms as symbols of wealth, taste and worldliness.
It had all the hallmarks of traditional Imari design, including its rich palette of cobalt blue and iron red, gilded decoration and elaborate scalloped rim.
At its centre sat a traditional basket overflowing with flowers — a motif symbolising abundance and prosperity.
It was one of those pieces that just stopped me in its tracks.
The sheer scale and dazzling decoration gave it enormous presence in the saleroom and online.
Imari ware has always had a loyal following and now there is growing appreciation among modern interior designers and collectors for bold, statement ceramics of this quality.
Imagine how it will look on a staircase, or on a sitting room wall.
A conversation piece and thing of beauty which will continued to enchant for many years to come.
Finally, if you are determined to action that long avoided summer clear out, then we may be able to help.
We are hosting a free valuation session at the Plough Arts Centre, 9-11 Fore Street, Great Torrington in Devon on June 17 from 11am-1pm, and at Hatherleigh Community Centre, Okehampton on the same day from 2.30pm-4.30pm.
Auction Details
Auction: Cornwall May Antiques Auction to include Jewellery, Silver & Watches, with Collectors & Asian
Auction date: 26th May 2026 | 10am
Location: Hansons Cornwall Saleroom
Auction contact: service@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com