Nabeshima ware is considered to be the most Japanese of all the porcelains and the most technically perfect. It was made at Okawachi, north of Arita, and was named after the prince who founded the kilns at the end of the 17th century. The porcelain was of much higher quality than that made for export and was originally made as presentation ware for the local nobility. Production was limited, and less than perfect specimens were destroyed. Its elegance was considered to be the epitome of refinement, and production methods were kept a carefully guarded secret. From 1868 on, Nabeshima wares were produced for domestic use and Western export. The motifs found on Nabeshima wares were usually simple, naturalistic and structurally bold. Decoration of dishes consisted of underglaze blue and white (“sometsuke”) and an overglaze colored enamel (“iro-Nabeshima”) technique. Nabeshima porcelains were well known for their high foot rim (“takadiazara”) which was enhanced with an underglaze blue comb pattern (“kusitadake”). They were generally not marked. The reverse rims of dishes were usually enhanced with repetitive flowers and leaves or with the cash pattern in underglaze blue. These underside patterns were executed in great detail, and this in itself is an important characteristic of Nabeshima ware. Condition is excellent, and the painting of the comb pattern on the foot is extremely well controlled. Dimensions: 8 1/8” (20.7 cm) diameter, 2 3/8” (6 cm) high.