Art Funded by you

Imari porcelain

Unknown artist, 1690–1720

This five-piece Japanese Imari porcelain set comprises three lidded oviform jars and two trumpet vases. Each vase is decorated with panels of black lacquer with gold flower designs. Japanese porcelain and lacquer played an important role in the decoration of European stately homes and palaces during the 17th and 18th centuries, where they symbolised the wealth and superior taste of their owners. This Imari collection is significant for its close association with Althorp and the Spencer family. It may even be the ‘five China Jars and Covers’ recorded in an Althorp inventory just after the death of Sarah, first Duchess of Marlborough, a wealthy and influential woman and important eighteenth-century art collector. The large spectacular set makes a significant addition to the Ashmolean Museum’s Japanese collection.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Imari porcelain, 1690–1720

Date supported

2011

Medium and material

Porcelain

Dimensions

Height: 62 or 90 cm

Grant

40000

Total cost

109250

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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