Pair of Imari porcelain plates decorated with the animals of the zodiac.

This pair of Imari porcelain plates features a refined design combining underglaze blue with overglaze iron-red, green and gold enamels. In the center, a stylized minogame turtle stretches out elegantly, surrounded by a circular frieze of blue scrollwork interspersed with red flowers. The rim of the dish is decorated with animals arranged in a frieze, depicted with precision and interacting with the central turtle. The reverse side of the dishes is also adorned with blue scrollwork and red flowers, harmoniously extending the design.

The animals depicted refer to the Asian zodiac cycle, where each embodies symbolic qualities such as strength, wisdom or prosperity. Their circular arrangement suggests the passage of time and cosmic harmony. In the center, the minogame turtle, recognizable by its elongated tail resembling seaweed, is a powerful symbol of longevity and good fortune. It embodies stability and protection in connection with the zodiac animals, emphasizing the symbolic and auspicious nature of the composition.