Vintage Japanese Art Deco Lustreware Toast Rack

A fine example of early 20th-century Japanese export ceramics, this five-slot toast rack features a distinctive Art Deco silhouette and lustreware finish. The piece is constructed from high-fired porcelain, characterized by an iridescent, pearlescent white base on the interior and arches, contrasted with a vibrant marigold or burnt-orange lustre border. The oval base plate is accented at the narrow ends with raised, polychrome floral relief decorations, featuring hand-painted red and green highlights. One central arch is uniquely topped with a small black and white bird finial, serving both as a decorative element and a functional handle for service. The rack exhibits five loop-style dividers designed to hold slices of toast vertically to prevent sogginess. Physically, the item appears to be in good vintage condition with minor surface wear consistent with age, though some slight fading to the iridescent glaze may be present. The craftsmanship reflects the 'Made in Japan' era (circa 1920s-1940s), known for combining Western Art Deco geometry with traditional Japanese glazing techniques.