Noritake Porcelain Double Inkstand

This Noritake inkstand is an example of the export porcelain produced for the Western market in the early 20th century.

• Overall Form: This is a formal desk set consisting of a single, rectangular tray with three integrated compartments: two square inkwells and a central holder. It is made of fine white porcelain.
  • The Tray: The tray is rectangular with subtly molded edges. It is a single, integral piece of porcelain.  The front of the tray features a shallow, molded channel designed to rest pens horizontally.
• Inkwells: There are two matching square inkwells situated symmetrically on the tray. The lids are not attached and lift off to access the ink. Each inkwell has its original porcelain insert.
• Central Container: The small, square container positioned precisely between the two inkwells is a holder for upright pens or for small accessories.

• Decoration: The surface decoration showcases the refined hand-painting typical of Noritake’s export quality:
  • Motif: The painting primarily consists of highly stylized foliage and scrolling leaves, forming a loose garland or spray that frames the inkwell openings and the central holder.
  • Flowers: The flowers are likely Chrysanthemums or a similar complex, layered bloom traditional in Japanese decorative arts. They feature multiple distinct petals radiating from a central point, matching the chrysanthemum form more closely than other flowers.
  • Colors: The palette is a mix of rich colors (pinks, reds, greens) set against the white porcelain, with extensive and heavy gold gilding. The gilding is used for the entire rim, the molded edges.

 Age and Background Information

• Manufacturer: Noritake, produced by the Nippon Toki Kaisha Ltd. (founded 1904).
• Style and Market: This piece falls into the company’s early export period, targeting Western tastes (specifically American and British) for highly decorated, functional desktop porcelain. It successfully combines Japanese craftsmanship with Western form.
• Age Estimate: The style of heavy gilding and the traditional floral motifs are characteristic of the earliest Noritake exports, before Art Deco began to influence their lines. circa 1905 – 1925 (Early Export Period).