A Japanese porcelain Arita vase with a blue and white design, 17th century

Arita porcelain originated in the early 17th century in the town of Arita, located in the Saga Prefecture of Japan. A major influence on Arita porcelain was Chinese blue and white porcelain, which was highly prized and sought after in Japan during the 17th century. Japanese potters aimed to replicate the beauty and quality of Chinese porcelain while also incorporating their own artistic sensibilities.
Arita porcelain gained international acclaim through the Dutch East India Company, which began exporting Japanese ceramics to Europe in the 17th century. The porcelain was shipped from the port of Imari, leading to its designation as “Imari ware” in the West, even though it originated in Arita.