Nippon Art Appraisal

Hand-Painted Nippon Porcelain Scenic Plate with Swan and Sunset Landscape

The item is a circular, shallow decorative plate or charger, appearing to be crafted from ceramic or porcelain, given its smooth, glossy finish. Its approximate size cannot be fully determined without a scale, but it comfortably fits within a human hand, suggesting a diameter of around 6-10 inches. The primary decoration is a meticulously hand-painted landscape scene, covering the entire surface of the plate. The scene depicts a serene river or lake at sunset, with a warm, glowing sky transitioning from soft yellow at the top to a vibrant orange and reddish hue near the horizon, suggesting the last remnants of daylight. The water reflects these colors, creating a harmonious palette. Several trees with varying shades of green foliage and distinct brown trunks are arranged along the banks, grounding the scene. A small, quaint house with a dark brown roof is nestled on a distant bank or island, adding a touch of civilization to the natural setting. Notably, a white swan is depicted gracefully floating on the water in the foreground, serving as a focal point and adding a sense of movement and life. The brushstrokes appear delicate and precise, indicating a skilled hand. The edges of the plate feature a thin, elegant gold rim, which is characteristic of decorative porcelain from the late 19th to early 20th century. There are no immediately visible chips, cracks, or significant abrasions. The 'Hand painted Nippon' context suggests this item is a piece of Japanese porcelain, likely from the Nippon era (1891-1921), known for its high-quality hand-painted export ware. The condition appears very good with minimal visible wear, consistent with an item used for display rather than utility. The overall craftsmanship points to a well-made, decorative piece.