Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This magnificent blue-and-white porcelain dish features a central motif of a flying crane soaring over stylized churning ocean waves and clouds, surrounded by a classic key-fret border. The reverse reveals hand-painted cloud-and-scroll tendrils and prominent spur marks on the base, characteristic of traditional Japanese kiln firing techniques.
Story
In Japanese lore, the crane (tsuru) represents 1,000 years of good fortune and longevity, often paired with stormy seas to symbolize resilience. Crafted in the famous Arita region, this large dish carried messages of prosperous wishes for grand celebratory feasts.
Maker / Origin
Arita is the birthplace of Japanese porcelain, where Korean potter Yi Sam-pyeong discovered porcelain stone in 1616. Artisans in this region refined cobalt underglaze painting over centuries, developing iconic styles that heavily influenced European ceramics like Meissen and Delftware.
Condition & Value
Appears in very good structural condition with no major chips, cracks, or visible hairline fractures from photos. Minor glaze imperfections, firing spots, and foot-rim wear are consistent with age and hand manufacturing. Excellent condition enhances value. Value is determined by age, size, painting quality, and physical condition.
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.