Jubako (stackable boxes) in sometsuke (underglaze blue) porcelain, with bird and plum blossom decoration, Meiji era

This remarkable 1883 piece (Meiji era, 1868 - 1912) illustrates the refinement of Japanese decorative arts at the end of the 19th century. Made of Imari porcelain and decorated using the sometsuke technique (underglaze blue), this four-compartment jubako (stackable Japanese box) with a lid combines the elegance of its decoration with the sobriety of its blue and white palette. Both a collector's item and a decorative piece, it retains a surprisingly contemporary presence today, while bearing witness to the expertise of the great Japanese porcelain workshops of that period.

Technique and Decoration

This piece is made of Imari porcelain decorated using the sometsuke technique (underglaze blue), one of the most emblematic processes in Japanese ceramics. The decoration is applied with cobalt directly onto the unfired porcelain before being covered with a transparent glaze and then fired at high temperature. The firing then reveals the different shades of blue, ranging from almost translucent washes to more intense accents.

The term Imari refers to porcelains produced in the Arita region, in the current Saga prefecture, and historically shipped from the port of Imari, which gave them their name. During the Meiji era (1868-1912), this porcelain tradition remained one of the great markers of Japanese ceramic expertise, both for the domestic market and for collectors. Decorations executed solely in cobalt blue on a white background are among the most appreciated expressions of this production, combining virtuosity of design and elegance of composition.

During the Meiji era, Japanese porcelain workshops perpetuated an already ancient tradition while developing high-quality pieces intended for both daily use and more prestigious commissions. The mastery of underglaze drawing was then a particularly sought-after sign of savoir-faire. The execution of this jubako perfectly illustrates this quest for precision and balance.

The decoration unfolds continuously over the four compartments and the lid, forming a unique composition that is fully revealed when the jubako is assembled. A bird appears among the branches of a flowering plum tree (ume). In Japanese culture, the ume is associated with spring, perseverance, and renewal. The design skillfully utilizes the different intensities of cobalt, alternating broad passages of nuanced blue with more delicate strokes for the branches, flowers, and foliage. This mastery of decoration gives the whole depth, movement, and visual coherence.

The form itself contributes to the visual strength of the object, which is also heavy. The four compartments are topped with a strongly curved lid whose curve follows the development of the decoration. The lower compartment rests on four integrated feet that provide stability and elevation while reinforcing the architectural silhouette of the piece.

Traditionally, a jubako (stacked compartment box) is used during festive meals to present different culinary preparations divided into several compartments. Today, this antique piece is primarily a remarkable collector's item. Its blue and white decoration, of great sobriety, gives it a visual presence that is both very Japanese and surprisingly contemporary. It can naturally be presented as a decorative work in its own right, but also find daily use as a storage box for various objects.

Presentation

This heavy piece is accompanied by its beautiful custom-made jidaibako (period box). The inscription on the box indicates the Meiji 16 dating, which corresponds to 1883.

Practical information

Place of manufacture
Japan

Dimensions
Height 26.8 cm - Width 16.4 cm - Depth 16.4 cm

Weight
Jubako and protective box: 5.1kg

Materials
Imari porcelain

Period
1883 - Meiji Era (1868-1912)

Condition
In good condition but showing some age-appropriate marks, which fully contribute to its character (small stains and scratches). This jubako can be presented in Paris by appointment for acquisition (contact@atelierikiwa.com).