Preliminary identification

Japanese Blue and White Underglaze Porcelain Bowl with Shishi and Seigaiha Waves

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

This finely potted Japanese porcelain bowl features a rich cobalt underglaze depiction of a frolicking shishi (lion dog) leaping across stylized seigaiha (repeating wave crest) patterns, with Mount Fuji in the background. The interior displays a central auspicious medallion and a detailed geometric and diaper-pattern rim border.

Story

Centuries ago in Hizen kilns, artisans fused Chinese mythical guardian beasts with traditional Japanese wave patterns. This bowl blends dynamic folklore with crisp blue-and-white porcelain mastery.

Maker / Origin

Produced in the famed ceramic region of Arita (historically exported via the port of Imari), this bowl exemplifies the specialized division of labor that flourished during Japan's late feudal era. Master potters and brush-painters worked in tandem, creating both domestic wares and export porcelain that captivated European and Asian markets alike.

Condition & Value

The bowl exhibits kiln-related firing inclusions and minor foot rim wear consistent with age, alongside a dark circular firing line or glaze crawl inside the recessed foot. No major visible rim chips or through-body cracks are apparent in the photos. Condition is very good for its period and supports solid collector interest.

Full Research

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.