Preliminary identification

Japanese Arita or Kraak-Style Blue and White Porcelain Dish

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

This exquisite blue-and-white porcelain dish features a central floral medallion surrounded by a segmented border depicting the classic 'Three Friends of Winter' motif—pine, bamboo, and plum blossom. The underside bears a four-character auspicious mark, 'Fugui Changtai' (Wealth, Honor, and Enduring Peace), enclosed within delicate underglaze blue scrollwork.

Story

Crafted in Japan's historic Arita kilns, this pattern draws heavily on 17th-century Chinese Kraak export porcelain that mesmerized European royalty. Its central medallion bursts with life, balancing traditional symbolism with spirited artistic flair.

Maker / Origin

The Arita kilns in Hizen Province were the birthplace of Japanese porcelain in the early 17th century, sparked by the discovery of kaolin clay at Izumiyama. Local artisans quickly mastered underglaze cobalt techniques, catering both to domestic teamasters and European trading companies like the Dutch East India Company (VOC).

Condition & Value

Appears to be in good antique condition overall with light surface wear, tiny firing imperfections typical of wood kilns, and slight rim roughness. Preserving the dish without chips commands the upper end of its market value. Value is driven by age, condition, and the clarity of the underglaze cobalt painting.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.