Antique Japanese Igezara Inban Porcelain Charger Plate with Phoenix Birds and Pie-Crust Rim, Late Meiji–Taisho Period

A striking antique Japanese Igezara Inban porcelain charger plate, dating to the late Meiji to Taisho period, circa 1900–1926. Measuring an impressive 31 cm in diameter, the plate features a richly detailed blue-and-white composition of two stylised phoenix birds surrounded by scrolling foliage and floral motifs. The broad patterned border is finished with a distinctive brown pie-crust rim, creating the characteristic appearance associated with traditional Japanese Igezara ware.

Details

Item: Large decorative charger plate

Origin: Japan

Date / Period: Late Meiji to Taisho period, circa 1900–1926

Material: Porcelain

Style: Japanese Igezara Inban ware, also known as Imban ware

Maker: Unmarked / unidentified

Decoration: Blue-and-white transfer-printed decoration with two stylised phoenix birds, scrolling foliage, floral motifs and a geometric patterned border

Rim: Brown pie-crust rim

Diameter: 31 cm

Condition

Very good antique condition with no visible cracks or chips. The plate displays minimal age-related wear consistent with its period. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Historical and Collector Context

Igezara plates are a distinctive form of Japanese porcelain associated particularly with the late Meiji and Taisho periods. Traditionally made as durable everyday wares, they are recognised for their substantial construction, transfer-printed decoration and characteristic brown pie-crust rims. The name Igezara is commonly translated as “thorn plate”, referring to the distinctive edge treatment.

Larger examples are particularly attractive as decorative chargers, combining the practical origins of Japanese domestic porcelain with strong visual presence. The phoenix-bird decoration on this plate adds further collector appeal, while its generous 31 cm size makes it especially suitable for display in a cabinet, on a stand or as a wall-mounted decorative feature.

All items are vintage or antique and may show light signs of age. Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.