Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A deep fluted porcelain bowl decorated in underglaze cobalt blue with segmented panels of floral motifs and a central medallion depicting a bird on a rock. Known in Japan as Ko-Sometsuke (old blue-and-white) and rendered in the Kraak or Fuyode (hibiscus/paneled) style, this ware was produced at Jingdezhen specifically for Japanese tea ceremony aesthetics.
Story
Made during the chaotic fall of the Ming dynasty, these lively vessels were commissioned by Japanese tea masters who treasured their deliberate flaws and 'mushikui' (insect-eaten) rims as pure wabi-sabi perfection.
Maker / Origin
Produced by folk kilns (minyao) in Jingdezhen, China, during the transition period when imperial patronage waned and potters pivoted to bespoke foreign orders. These artisans adopted a rapid, expressive brush style tailored to the idiosyncratic tastes of Japanese merchant and samurai tea practitioners.
Condition & Value
Displays characteristic mushikui (glaze fritting and minor flakes) along the foliated rim consistent with authentic late Ming Ko-Sometsuke production. Kiln grit and iron spots present on the unglazed base; accompanied by a traditional fitted wooden tomobako.
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.