Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite Japanese Meiji-period underglaze blue (sometsuke) porcelain water pot featuring a high overhead bridge handle, decorated with symmetrical paulownia foliage and elegant phoenix (fēnix / hō-ō) motifs. The base bears a crisp underglaze cobalt mark reading 'Nōeisha ōjū / Hakuundō sei' (Special commission by the Nōeisha Company, made by Hakuundō/Kato Shubei II).
Story
In 1878, master potter Kato Shubei II won bronze at the Paris World's Fair. This piece was custom-made for the export firm Nōeisha, bridging traditional Seto craft with Western Victorian taste.
Maker / Origin
Kato Shubei II (working studio name Hakuundō) was among the premier ceramic artists of the Meiji era in Seto. He was renowned for mastering Western chemical cobalt smalt alongside traditional Japanese brushwork, creating vibrant, photographic blue-and-white wares.
Condition & Value
Appears to be in outstanding antique condition with no visible chips, cracks, or restoration to the vulnerable high-loop handle, spout, or finial. Pristine preservation of Meiji-era porcelain handles significantly elevates market value.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.