Blue and White Arita Charger with Chinoiserie Bird Design

• Charger - A charger is a type of large plate, typically used as a decorative base for smaller plates or bowls. They are often used in formal settings, such as at a banquet or a special occasion.
  
  The history of chargers can be traced back to medieval times, when they were used as a base for serving dishes in banquet settings. They were typically made of metal, such as silver or pewter, and were highly decorative, often featuring intricate engravings or designs.
  
  During the Renaissance period, chargers began to be made of porcelain, and their designs became more ornate. They were often used in the homes of the wealthy and were considered a symbol of wealth and status.
  
  In the 18th and 19th centuries, chargers were produced in great numbers by European porcelain manufacturers, and they were exported to America and other parts of the world. They were highly sought after by the upper class and were often used as a decorative element in formal table settings.
• Chinoiserie - Furniture and decorative items decorated in imitation of a Western interpretation of the Chinese style. The Chinoiserie style first became popular in the late 17th century, though there were frequent revivals, notably by Chippendale (hence 'Chinese Chippendale') during the Regency period, and the Anglo-Japanese style in the second half of the 19th century.
  
  The ubiquitous 'willow pattern' is the most common 'Chinese' theme used in porcelain, while on furniture the Chinoiserie style usually has black or red painted and lacquered decoration, though the hallmark of the furniture style is the use of fretwork in geometrical patterns, pagodas and other decorative forms.
  
  Japonaiseries, as the name implies, are motifs in imitation of the Japanese taste.
  
  See also "Chinese Chippendale".

This item has been included into following indexes:

• Japanese ceramics, factories and cities - Arita 128
• Japanese ceramics, item types - chargers 232
• Japanese ceramics, styles and decoration - blue and white 188
• Satsuma (Japan), item type - plates, platters and chargers 566