Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An authentic antique Vietnamese underglaze blue and white flared bowl, decorated with continuous scrolling floral and foliage motifs beneath a stylized band at the rim. It is accompanied by a traditional Japanese custom paulownia wood storage box (tomobako), showing it was treasured for generations as a Japanese tea ceremony utensil (chawan).
Story
During the Ming dynasty sea ban in the 1400s, Vietnamese potters stepped up to supply the global appetite for fine porcelain. Japanese tea masters later revered these rustic, spirited wares, carefully storing them in fitted silk-tied wooden boxes.
Maker / Origin
Produced by master potters in the Chu Dau-My Xa kiln complexes of Northern Vietnam, which flourished from the 14th through 17th centuries before being lost to history until modern archaeological excavations uncovered their extraordinary reach.
Condition & Value
Very good antique condition for early export pottery; displays age-appropriate glaze crazing, light interior kiln grit/wear, and minor expected rim fritting or small glaze flakes along the unglazed foot ring. The minor rim nibbles do not detract significantly from collector appeal.
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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.