Dish with design of fern and rhododendron leaves

Japan, Saga Prefecture; Edo period (1603–1867), Early 18th century
Porcelain painted with underglaze cobalt and overglaze enamels (Arita ware, Nabeshima type)
H. 1 1/2 x Diam. 5 3/16 in. (3.8 x 13.2 cm)
Asia Society, New York: Gift of Richard Oldenburg in honor of Mrs. Blanchette Hooker Rockefeller, 2015.10

The designs on Nabeshima wares were applied with inked transfer patterns. In this technique, designs that appear drawn were inked and applied to the body of the ceramic, leaving behind a faint outline. The outline was traced in cobalt blue before the ceramic was dipped in glaze and fired. Enamels were added after this firing and the piece was re-fired at a lower temperature.