Set of 6 Antique Japanese Porcelain Plates Dragon & Tiger, INBAN 1930s (4.1in/10.5cm)

A set of six small porcelain plates from the Meiji–Taisho transitional period showcases Antique Japanese plates adorned with dragon and tiger motifs applied by the inban transfer-printing method. Measuring approximately 4.1 inches (10.5 cm) across and about 0.8 inch (2 cm) high, each saucer weighs roughly 3 ounces (85 g) and is made of porcelain; small variations, light scratches, and faint transfer lines reflect hand-applied decoration and gentle age wear rather than modern factory precision. Collectors seeking rare dining sets, wabi sabi aesthetic pieces or inbanware set examples will value the dragon tiger dish design for display or modest serving.

Condition and authentic wear

These plates show consistent signs of age: light surface scratches, minor soiling, and transfer-print irregularities such as faint areas, blurring, or slight misalignment. Slight warping visible from the side is noted on some pieces. These are not flaws to be hidden but observable characteristics of early inbanware set production and hand-applied transfer techniques from the period.

Historical technique and design

The inban method used here is an early transfer-printing approach where patterns were applied with transfer paper and finished by hand. The paired dragon and tiger motif is uncommon, making this dragon tiger dish composition an attractive example of Meiji era pottery and transfer print art for collectors and enthusiasts of Oriental stoneware.

Practical use and display

As porcelain tableware or collectible gifts, these plates function well as small saucers for tea service, accent dishes for sushi or condiments, or decorative display on shelving or a wall plate rack. Their size and weight make them suitable for delicate serving or staged tabletop presentation within Asian home decor arrangements.

Care and handling

Handle with care to avoid further surface wear. Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild detergent; avoid abrasive pads and dishwasher use to preserve transfer print art and glaze. Store separated by soft tissue or felt to prevent scratches.

Package contents

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🛡️ RETURNS & CONDITION

• Returns: Accepted within 7 days. Buyer pays round-trip shipping costs and processing fees for buyer's remorse.

• Condition: Our items are authentic antiques/vintage. Naturally, they carry signs of age (scratches/wear). Please examine all photos carefully before purchasing.

FAQ

Q: Are these authentic Meiji era pottery pieces?

A: The plates were produced during the Meiji–Taisho transitional period and reflect the inban transfer-printing technique associated with early 20th-century production; descriptions of age signs and hand-applied transfers are included.

Q: What is the condition of the transfer prints?

A: The transfer print art shows faint areas, slight misalignment, and occasional blurring consistent with hand-applied inban work; these marks contribute to the vintage ceramics character.

Q: Can these be used as everyday porcelain tableware?

A: They are well suited for occasional use as small saucers or serving dishes, but because of age-related wear we recommend gentle handling and careful cleaning rather than heavy everyday use.

Q: Is the dragon tiger dish motif rare?

A: The facing dragon and tiger design in inbanware is noted as particularly rare within similar Meiji–Taisho pieces, making this set desirable for collectors of rare dining sets and those seeking distinctive Asian decorative accents.