Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This exquisite set of ten porcelain mukozuke (side dishes) features a distinct undulating, square-lobed shape known as kaku-bachi. Decorating the interior is a charming combination of underglaze blue and overglaze enamel depicting a playful Shishi (guardian lion) beside blooming peonies, framed by traditional geometric diaper-pattern borders.
Story
During Japan's Meiji era, porcelain artisans blended sacred symbolism with dining art. The paired Karashishi and peony represented supreme power harmonized with delicate beauty. Having a complete set of ten original small bowls preserved together from this era is an exceptional survivor of historic banquets.
Maker / Origin
Crafted in the famed kiln kilns surrounding Arita—the birthplace of Japanese porcelain—these pieces draw on centuries of Imari and Sometsuke tradition. Arita potteries were renowned for using local kaolin clay to create dense, bright white porcelain painted with cobalt blue before being fired at immense temperatures.
Condition & Value
The set appears exceptionally well-preserved as a complete group of ten. Minor variations in hand-painting, glaze bubbling, or light enamel rubbing are consistent with period hand-crafted porcelain. Complete sets command a significant value premium over individual pieces.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.