Ko-Imari Ozara
One Thousand Cranes

Edo period (1750 - 1800).
Arita kilns, Kyushu, Japan.
Underglaze blue on porcelain.
Imari One Thousand Cranes
Crane Rear

 

This lovely design of cranes in flight originates from the Arita region of Kyushu, Japan, famous for production of Imari porcelain. The crane is known as an auspicious symbol of longevity in Japanese art; legend in Japan suggested that cranes could live for a thousand years.

Each crane is uniquely positioned and detailed in a pattern originating from the center working outward in all directions. This ozara is exceptional in the thickness of the rim and its weight; an interesting and expertly rendered design of seven horses in various postures is painted on the rear side.

Occasionally similar patterns appear on other ozara, also done in reverse coloring.

Crane Detail

Copyright by Blue & White America, Inc., 1998