Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This exquisite Edo-period lobed porcelain dish features refined underglaze cobalt blue painting (sometsuke) depicting coastal pine groves (*matsubara*) set against a swirling border of cherry blossoms and rushing water. The underside displays continuous trailing floral arabesques (*karakusa*), three distinct spur marks (*harime*), and an underglaze blue geometric pseudo-seal mark in a double square.
Story
During Japan's 17th-century isolation, Arita potters turned inward to create sophisticated porcelain for high-ranking samurai. This dish uses classical Yamato-e motifs to evoke the poetic landscapes of medieval waka poetry.
Maker / Origin
Produced by master potters in the Arita kilns of the Nabeshima domain, this piece embodies the pinnacle of late 17th-century domestic tableware. The wooden storage box (*tomobako*) bears an authentication inscription by Matsuura Jun, a recognized specialist in historic Japanese ceramics.
Condition & Value
Appears in very good antique condition with intact spur marks, strong cobalt firing, and no obvious major cracks or structural repairs visible in photos. The iron-wash rim shows expected minor kiln variations typical of 17th-century firing. Excellent condition for this era supports strong collector interest.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.