An unusual and fun Kakiemon dish. Decoration in underglaze blue, persimmon red, teal and yellow-green enamel. The rim meticulously lined with chocolate brown enamel resist before adding the glaze. A central ‘Ju’ character similarly encircled with a band of persimmon red enamel resist on the biscuit before glazing. The porcelain surface exhibits an early feel (I think of it as a fine ‘pear skin’ texture) that later production doesn’t achieve. The ‘Ju’, or ‘Toshi’, kanji character is a celebratory wish here for longevity. This would not be unusual in context of a superior’s or esteemed’s birthday. There is some precedent for longevity motif from Chinese doucai porcelains, with stylized ‘Shou’ character (the same as for ‘Ju’), of Qing dynasty China (from which much decorative arts influence has conveyed to Japan over the centuries). The surrounding chrysanthemums number twelve, each with 12 main and 12 overlapped petals (24 petals each). The main imperial line would use 32 (16 petals and 16 overlapped petals). The use in this case could relate to a lesser line of the family, a feudal lord or it may be simply an exuberant expression. A group of five kiln spurs appear within the foot revealing the well refined kaolin retaining light, fine grit from the kiln. Edo period, first half 18th century. A small round chip just inside the rim, otherwise good condition (an excellent candidate for 'kintsugi'). Diameter, about 9 1/2 inches

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