Giant dish in the shape of a chrysanthemum decorated with two lions

This decorative dish is adorned in underglaze painting in cobalt blue and overglaze enamels and gold. Its form is reminiscent of a chrysanthemum blossom, a symbol of the Japanese imperial throne. A central motif is the guardian “Chinese lions” karashishi amid peony blossoms. The octagonal cartouche bears the motif of a jar with a lid decorated with the “Chinese lion” karashishi. The circular cartouche is adorned with a phoenix motif. The painting on the dish therefore includes the major congratulatory motifs known in Chinese and Japanese cultures.