Rare and spectacular 19th century Imari porcelain fish plates in a multitude of different sizes and shapes. These plates will be on view and for sale from November 21st through January 31st in Gallery 55. The exhibit has been introduced to coincide with the holidays, since they are such an ideal item for entertaining.
The Imari fish plates and platters bear the traditional palette of the ware's rich cobalt blues, iron reds, greens and gilt. The various designs and motifs provide a striking contrast against the whiteness of the porcelain. The wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors and themes fill the gallery with a profusion of stunning color.
Since the 1700's and 1800's majestic American and European homes were often designed to display Japan's great Imari porcelain garnitures on their mantles and imposing Imari palace vases along their winding staircases. This Imari obsession continued well into the 19th and 20th centuries and is now appearing in every type of venue. Imari porcelain, aesthetically exquisite, as well as functional, holds today's luxurious bouquets and displays today's marvelously prepared meals on the most refined dining tables.
Jean Schaefer, president of the firm, states with passion, ''No home should be without a collection of Imari fish plates to enhance the dinner table on the occasions when ceviche hors d’oeuvres or sumptuous fish entrées are served.''
