Large export bowl. Japan, Edo period (18th century).

Large export bowl. Japan, Edo period (XVIII century).
In Arita glazed porcelain, Imari type.
Commissioned by the Dutch East India Company (VOC).
In good condition, according to its age.
Measurements: 15,5 x 36 x 36 cm.

Important Japanese bowl of generous proportions made of Arita porcelain, decorated in bright polychrome glazes under the Imari aesthetic and intended for the European market, commissioned by the Dutch East India Company (VOC).

The interior decoration displays an elaborate iconographic program of extraordinary historical interest. It alternates scenes with European three-masted ships, western figures dressed in 18th century fashion and cartouches with auspicious Chinese characters, all arranged in richly ornamented compartments with geometric backgrounds in iron red and emerald green. In the center of the bowl appears a horseman framed by a vegetal garland, under a medallion with the initials "RW", probably alluding to a Western client or recipient.

The ensemble masterfully combines eastern and western elements: European merchant ships represented with remarkable technical detail, characters with clothing typical of the Atlantic world and Chinese symbols of good omen. This iconographic hybridization is characteristic of Arita's production for export during the 18th century, when Dejima (Nagasaki) was the only authorized enclave for trade with Europe.

The quality of the drawing, the chromatic intensity and the compositional complexity place this piece within the high-level production made for the Dutch market. Large bowls of this size, with personalized iconographic programs and possible custom initials, are considerably rarer than conventional table forms and were intended for high-end clients.

The exterior features reserves decorated with architectural landscapes and framed plant motifs, maintaining the stylistic coherence of the whole.