Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a stunning contemporary Japanese studio porcelain vase by the master ceramicist Fujii Kinsai, featuring a meticulously hand-painted underglaze blue (sometsuke) bird and pomegranate design. The background is finished in a brilliant, crackled platinum glaze that catches and reflects light like liquid silver, creating a dramatic contrast with the traditional cobalt blue.
Story
Crafted in the historic kilns of Arita, this vase blends 400 years of porcelain tradition with a bold, modern metallic aesthetic. The artist, Fujii Kinsai, spent years perfecting the volatile chemistry required to fire platinum glaze alongside delicate underglaze blue.
Maker / Origin
Fujii Kinsai is a highly celebrated contemporary Arita master who studied under several Living National Treasures, including the legendary Okugawa Shigetoshi. Kinsai is renowned for his mastery of traditional wheel-throwing techniques combined with innovative glaze applications, particularly his signature gold and platinum leafing and crackle glazes.
Condition & Value
The vase appears to be in pristine, mint condition with no visible chips, cracks, or wear to the delicate platinum glaze. The accompanying tomobako is also in excellent condition, showing minimal aging, which helps preserve the item's maximum market value.
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.