Arita Ware "Technique - Overglaze Decoration" (2017)

Japan's First Porcelain with Colored Overglaze Decoration

Less than 30 years after the birth of porcelain in Japan, Arita ware underwent a major transformation. Colored overglaze decorating techniques were introduced from China, and by 1622 the first porcelain decorated with colored overglaze was being fired in Japan. Early examples of this style were fired around 1640-1660. Patterns were developed for use with colored enamels, and a variety of new products were fired. Part of the reason for this development was the transition from the Ming to the Qing Dynasty in China that occurred in 1644, and the resulting freeze in exports of porcelain ware from China. Arita ware from around this period shows the influence of Chinese ceramic techniques beyond merely copying form and design. Arita ware suddenly assumed the style of Chinese Jingdezhen ware in a short period of time.