Imari Plates

[babapmbt]

I have recently inherited three plates from my step-dad.  He and his first wife were stationed in Japan in the 1950's. It was during that time when these plates were purchased.  It was suggested to me that the plates may be Imari.  How do I know this for sure and their worth?  The plates are in excellent condition but no markings on the back except for what is shown in the picture.  Any information on this would be so very much appreciated.

[syl]

Your plates are very beautiful but there doesn't seem to be any makers marks so it would be hard to tell. But if you go to gotheborg.com you will find a very thorough listing of marks. Also Imari is not really a maker of porcelain. It is a town in Japan where lots of makers were located. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful but maybe someone else will know more.

[D&b antiques]

it would be best to consult & expert. there were a group of ceramic artist  working in japan from about.1878 to 1978 who did not sign there work. but they did sign the crate box etc.

The ceramic's were shipped in. this look's to be Imari.Nabeshima was also unmarked. but much older than this. it's safe to say it's pre 1950's.

[babapmbt]

Thank you syl and to D&B antiques for your comments.  Your information was a help.  Perhaps someone else will reply to even help further.  I am not sure how to locate an expert for more help.  Any advice would be appreciated.  Thanks so much!!!

[KC]

Has anyone noticed that the plate there  is a close up of....there appears to be an animal in it?  They aren't all flowers.  The darker object has a bushy tail there is a distinct nose and eyes!

[sapphire]

Now that you mentioned it KC I had to go back for a second (third?) look.......on magnification the grey 'shape' also appears to be an animal.  Reminds me of a stylized squirrel and a groundhog (?)

[D&b antiques]

Note The large Chrysanthemum's present on the plates. that is a sign of the emperor of japan.likely as not Hiro Hito. decided to back off. she need's expert help.

[D&b antiques]

The Animal you see is likely to be a rat.

[sapphire]

The Animal you see is likely to be a rat.

Thanks for killing that warm fuzzy feeling!   
 

[Skinny]

Note The large Chrysanthemum's present on the plates. that is a sign of the emperor of japan.likely as not Hiro Hito. decided to back off. she need's expert help.

Might that mean that these plates could have belonged to a member of the royal family? Would an imperial symbol be on a common Japanese citizens plate? I would think not myself.

[sapphire]

In searching the data base for Imari pictures, many of them have chrysanthemums in one form or another in the pattern.

http://images.google.com/images?gbv=2&hl=en&sa=1&q=imari+plate&aq=f&oq=&aqi=&start=0

[D&b antiques]

The large Chrysanthemum. on the plates, is significant, because it's the crest & seal of the emperor of japan. as for the Rat it plays and important part in japanese history.

[KC]

In Japan the rat was a symbol/messenger of one of the seven gods of good luck/fortune and has been represented as one of 12 animals in it's zodiac signs.