Early Imari refers to the earliest porcelain wares produced in Japan, believed to have been made in the early 1600s. These are the first porcelain products known to have been created in Japan, originating in the Imari region.
Unlike later porcelain techniques, Early Imari employed a method known as “namakake” (raw firing), in which the pieces were glazed and painted without being first bisque-fired. As a result, the works possess a warm, soft, and slightly moist texture that gives them a unique character.
Although the clay body and underglaze blue (sometsuke) often show unstable or uneven coloration—an indication of the still-developing techniques of the time—these imperfections are now seen as part of their charm.
Early Imari was produced using techniques inspired by Chinese porcelain. At that time, China was a major exporter of ceramics to both Europe and Japan, and its porcelain production was considered highly advanced. It’s likely that Early Imari reflected a sense of admiration and aspiration toward Chinese craftsmanship.