Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An exceptional and rare Japanese porcelain vase featuring a dramatic underglaze blue (sometsuke) depiction of Shoki the Demon Queller hunting a mischievous oni hidden in a pine tree. Standing approximately 31.5cm tall, this piece showcases the signature pristine white body and brilliant cobalt blue brushwork of the renowned Fukagawa kiln.
Story
Centuries of folklore come alive on this porcelain canvas. Shoki, the legendary protector against evil spirits, stands guard with his sword drawn, while a tiny, terrified demon hides directly above him in the pine branches. It is a brilliant, playful game of hide-and-seek captured in cobalt.
Maker / Origin
Fukagawa Seiji was founded in 1894 by Chuji Fukagawa in Arita, the cradle of Japanese porcelain. Renowned for its patented 'Fukagawa Blue' and exceptionally pure white clay, the company won the Grand Prix at the 1900 Paris Exposition and was appointed as an official purveyor to the Japanese Imperial Household in 1910.
Condition & Value
The vase appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or restorations. The glaze remains brilliant and the foot rim shows only minor, expected shelf wear. Excellent condition like this commands a premium.
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.