Japanese Shōwa Era Imari Extra-Large Lidded Temple Jar on Wood Stand, c. 1940

A circa 1940 extra-large Japanese Shōwa era Imari ware hand-decorated porcelain lidded temple jar, urn, or vessel on wood stand.

Lid features a delightfully charming butter yellow and baby blue grinning shisa figure on top—a traditional Ryukyuan cultural artifact and decoration from Okinawa mythology derived from Chinese guardian lions—that resembles a cross between a lion and a dog. Shisa are wards believed to protect a house from some evils, with the toothy, closed mouth on this one signifying that its mission is to keep good spirits in.

Very substantial white porcelain jar and lid with gorgeous hand-painted floral and geometric decorations in blue, bittersweet (a captivating blend of orange and red), and gold throughout. Chrysanthemum flowers, leaves, and stems abound, with stylized lotus flowers adorning the rim of the lid and lower portions of the jar.

Delicately hand-painted gold details, line work, and lattice patterns further elevate the overall design and quality of the piece, and speak to the talents of the skilled artisans who created it nearly a century ago.

Jar marked on underside with three hand-painted red Japanese characters that—when translated into English—read “Imari”.

Nicely presented on what appears to be a more recent Asian-style five-footed wood stand with dark reddish-brown finish that’s a perfect fit for the jar.

Dimensions overall including stand..:
Height: 34.5 in Width: 14.88 in Depth: 14.88 in
Jar with lid is H 25.5 in. x Dia. 14.88 in. (body) / Dia. 10.5 in. (base).

Condition: Good

Wear consistent with age and use. Jar and lid in extremely good nearly antique condition, with no notable issues besides a few minuscule marks and faint wear spots, and no chips or crazing. Stand in very good condition, with only some tiny nicks and marks primarily on edges of feet.