Preliminary identification

Japanese Imari Blue and White Sometsuke Lobed Bowls, Set of 13

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

An exceptional assembled set of thirteen Japanese blue and white (sometsuke) porcelain bowls featuring a classic hand-painted mountain and river landscape. Each bowl is designed with a delicate lobed or scalloped rim, ribbed interior walls, and an underglaze blue Fuku (good fortune) mark enclosed in a double square on the base.

Story

During the 19th century, Japanese potters in Arita perfected these sometsuke wares for domestic feasts. The hand-painted landscape represents a poetic, idealized world of mountain retreats, offering diners a moment of scholarly contemplation with their meal.

Maker / Origin

While these do not bear an individual artist's signature, they were produced in the historic kiln networks of Arita (Hizen Province). Potters here utilized local porcelain stone and cobalt blue glazes, operating under strict guild standards that ensured high-quality craftsmanship for both domestic use and export.

Condition & Value

The bowls appear to be in very good antique condition with typical minor manufacturing flaws, glaze pops, and light foot rim wear consistent with age. No major chips or cracks are immediately visible in the photos, though close physical inspection is recommended to rule out hairline fractures.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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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.