Bizen-Ware
with a Catalogue of the Chater Collection by James Orange. Kelly and Walsh
Limited, 1916. Hardcover. Original cloth sewn with cord in Japanese style.
Floral endpapers. Paul Chater was an energetic and innovative man who though
coming from disadvantage built an enviable business empire as well as involving
himself with the government of Hong Kong. He served as Senior Unofficial Member
of the Executive Council for 30 years ending only with his death. When Sir Paul
Chater died in 1926 his collection of porcelain, prints and paintings together
with Marble Hall, his mansion, was bequeathed to the Government of Hong Kong to
be handed over on the death of his wife. This book only covers the Bizen-Ware
portion of his collection. 115 with 162 illustrated photographic plates of
Bizen Ware. The text discusses its history, the pottery, varieties of
Bizen-ware, potter/artists, list of potters and their signatures, a catalogue
of the collection and the legends. Then comes the illustrations. The cloth
covers do show soiling and discoloration. The front hinge is tight, but
separating. Back hinge good. Internally clean and tight. Very scarce title.