Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite, densely decorated square porcelain lidded jar featuring a celestial maiden (tennyo) amidst a lush landscape of pines and clouds. It is executed in the vibrant, glass-like overglaze enamels characteristic of Kutani ware and is accompanied by its original signed wooden presentation box (tomobako).
Story
Crafted in Ishikawa, this vessel depicts a celestial Buddhist maiden floating through a pine forest. The accompanying tomobako box bears the signature of a master, linking this piece to a lineage of Living National Treasures.
Maker / Origin
The Tokuda Yasokichi lineage is one of the most celebrated dynasties in modern Japanese ceramics, with Yasokichi III being designated a Living National Treasure in 1997 for his revolutionary 'yofutsuboku' glaze technique.
Condition & Value
The jar and lid appear to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, cracks, or enamel loss. The tomobako shows minor age-related toning but remains structurally sound, which preserves the item's premium value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.