Japanese Majolica-Style Bird and Scroll Plate
Ceramic decorative art (serving plate/coaster) • Anonymous Japanese workshop producing export ceramics
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Japanese Ceramic (Derivative European Majolica style)
Medium & Technique
Hand-painted glazed earthenware involving underglaze painting and clear overglaze firing on a buff clay body.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (Post-WWII Occupation-era to 1960s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 5 to 7 inches in diameter; circular format.
Subject Description
Stylized folk-art composition featuring two mirror-image birds perched within yellow scroll-like decorative borders. The central field is decorated with green dots, and the rim is finished with a cobalt blue band. The imagery draws inspiration from Mediterranean or European peasant pottery.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible surface crazing throughout the glaze.
Estimated Market Value
$10 - $25
Auction Estimate
$5 - $15
Provenance History
Likely produced for the American export market during the mid-20th century, typically marked with 'Made in Japan' or 'Occupied Japan' stamps on the reverse.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the 'Made in Japan' export boom where Japanese kilns replicated international folk motifs to meet global demand for affordable homewares.
Notable Features
Distinctive yellow scrollwork and bird motifs that mimic Italian Maiolica or Spanish Talavera patterns, executed with a Japanese brushwork sensibility.
Condition Issues
Significant crazing (fine network of cracks in the glaze) and minor staining within the crazing lines; typical minor manufacturing glaze skips.
Conservation Recommendations
Decorative use only; avoid immersion in water or microwave use to prevent further crazing or glaze flaking. Dust with a dry cloth.
Collector Notes
Hand painted made in japan