本作は、精緻な磁胎と端正な染付で知られる後期鍋島の品で、見込みには豪快な鯉と繊細な桜花を大きく配した名題材「桜鯉文」が描かれています。濃淡を巧みに使い分けた鯉の力強い姿と、対照的に柔らかく描かれた桜枝が、春の躍動と吉祥性を象徴しています。
高台には後期鍋島の典型である立縞文がめぐり、端正な造形と染付の調和が際立ちます。桜鯉文の大皿は飾り映えが良く、後期鍋島の中でも特に人気の高い意匠であり、強さと優美さを併せ持つ作品です。
Dimensions: 27 × 27 × 10 cm**
This impressive large dish is a fine example of late-period Nabeshima ware, celebrated for its refined porcelain body and elegant blue-and-white painting. The central motif depicts a boldly rendered carp swimming beneath blossoming cherry branches—a pairing symbolizing perseverance, vitality, and the arrival of spring in Japanese culture.
The carp’s powerful form, shaded in deep cobalt, contrasts beautifully with the delicate cherry blossoms. The raised foot is decorated with the classic vertical-striped pattern characteristic of Nabeshima kiln production. Together, these features reflect the disciplined artistry and technical mastery that define Nabeshima porcelain.
Large dishes with such dynamic compositions are highly prized, and this piece represents the tasteful balance of strength and grace found in the finest Japanese porcelain traditions.