c1800 Antique Chinese Imari Barber's Bowl. 11" wide x 2 5/8" tall. A Barber’s<br>Bowl is a shaving dish which is usually made in ceramic, it was used by barbers<br>in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. By the 19th century, barbers were commonly<br>using this semi-circular bowl to not only cut hair, but also beards. Thus the<br>barber became very popular as well as servicing a new need, and a new profession<br>was created.<br><br>A wonderful 18th century Chinese Imari Barber’s Bowl with a vibrant Imari<br>design. This name is used for both a pattern and colors which were for a<br>specific type of Chinese porcelain. The Chinese got their inspiration from the<br>earlier colors and designs of Japanese Imari porcelain. Chinese Imari is<br>typically characterized by a combination of dry iron red enamel highlighted with<br>gilt which is then applied as the underglaze on blue and white porcelain. In<br>general, the Chinese Imari pieces have a brighter white and more purple-toned<br>blue than the Japanese pieces. The red over-glaze is also thinner and closer to<br>orange than in Japanese pieces.<br><br>This Barber’s Bowl is in pristine condition and has two holes at the top of the<br>piece. This was done in order to put cords through the holes so that it could be<br>hung on a wall. This 18th century Chinese Imari Barber’s Bowl is an exquisite<br>piece, has wonderful vibrant tones and is in lovely condition.