Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This exquisite set of five lobed porcelain small bowls features vibrant underglaze cobalt blue (sometsuke) decoration depicting cranes and pine motifs, classic symbols of longevity. Formed with a subtle foliate rim and octagonal paneled body, each bowl bears a square fuku (good fortune) mark on the base.
Story
Crafted in 19th-century Edo Japan, these lobed porcelain bowls were designed for formal dining and tea ceremonies. The pine and crane motifs carried auspicious wishes of long life and prosperity for the host's honored guests.
Maker / Origin
Produced by skilled kilns in the Arita region of Hizen Province, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Artisans spent years mastering cobalt underglaze painting on dense porcelain clay prior to high-temperature firing.
Condition & Value
Appears well-preserved with clear cobalt color. Minor age-appropriate kiln flaws or slight rim wear may be present; complete set integrity significantly helps retain value. Complete sets of five original Edo-period Ko-Imari bowls in good condition carry strong collector demand.
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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.