Vintage Japanese Imari Porcelain Tsubo, Arita, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-633-3

Vintage Japanese Imari Porcelain Tsubo, Arita, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-633-3

A hand-painted Arita porcelain tsubo in the classic ko-Imari palette, presented in its original signed wooden box

A tsubo is a traditional Japanese rounded storage jar or vase form with a wide belly and a narrow neck -- one of the most enduring silhouettes in Japanese ceramic history. This example is a fine piece of vintage Japanese Imari-style porcelain, almost certainly produced in Arita, the historic kiln town in Saga Prefecture that has been the heart of Japanese porcelain craft since the early Edo period. The vessel displays the signature ko-Imari three-color palette: deep underglaze blue, iron-red overglaze enamel, and gilt gold accents, applied over a bright white porcelain body. The upper shoulder is wrapped in broad cobalt panels punctuated by lobed red medallions filled with chrysanthemum and peony motifs rendered in fine gold linework. The lower body opens onto a lush garden scene -- peonies, chrysanthemums, and leafy branches painted in rich blue, red, orange, and green -- framed by sweeping green grass strokes in the classic Imari manner. A bold brocade band of blue and gold arabesque panels rings the foot, and the narrow collar is banded with further floral and scroll decoration. The base carries a painted artist's mark in underglaze blue. The piece comes complete with its original signed wooden tomobako (presentation box), inscribed with the title and the maker's name -- a mark of quality that adds significant collector and display value to this handcrafted Japanese ceramic.

This vintage Imari tsubo is a versatile and striking piece for the modern home. Its rounded, sculptural form and jewel-toned palette make it an instant focal point as a living room accent or entryway statement piece -- displayed on a console, sideboard, or shelf where the ko-Imari colors can catch the light. It works equally well as a flower vase for a single stem arrangement or a loose bouquet of seasonal blooms, bringing a wabi-sabi aesthetic to any interior. The Japandi style home in particular benefits from this kind of heritage craft object -- its bold patterning balances beautifully against neutral linens, raw wood, and minimalist furniture. The included tomobako makes this a thoughtful and distinguished gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates the art of vintage Japanese ceramics. Whether displayed alone or paired with other blue-and-white pieces, this tsubo brings a centuries-old craft tradition into everyday contemporary living.

• Origin: Arita, Saga Prefecture, Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Hand-painted Arita porcelain with underglaze blue, overglaze iron-red enamel, and gilt gold decoration
• Use: Decorative vase and display vessel; presented in original signed tomobako (wooden presentation box)
• Modern Use: Living room accent or entryway display piece; flower vase for single-stem or loose bouquet arrangements; shelf or sideboard decor in Japandi or minimalist interiors
• Features: Classic ko-Imari three-color palette; globular tsubo form with narrow collar; cobalt shoulder panels with lobed red-and-gold peony medallions; lower body painted with a garden scene of peonies and chrysanthemums; brocade arabesque foot band with gilt detailing; collar banded with floral and scroll motifs; underglaze blue artist's mark on base; comes with original signed wooden tomobako
• Dimensions: 9" Diameter x 9"H
• Condition: Excellent

A museum-quality example of vintage Japanese Imari porcelain craft -- its bold ko-Imari palette and generous rounded form bring centuries of Arita tradition into any modern living space.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.