Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A refined Japanese square porcelain dish featuring overglaze polychrome (iro-e) landscape painting over a subtle white molded relief (yōkoku) of karahana floral scrolls. The base bears a double square 'Fuku' (good fortune) mark in underglaze blue, housed in a fitted wooden box (gōbako).
Story
Kutani artisans in early 20th-century Japan mastered combining subtle relief work with vibrant polychrome glazes. The negative white space on this dish conceals delicate molded floral scrolls, visible only when light strikes the porcelain surface at a shallow angle. It reflects the Japanese aesthetic of hidden elegance.
Maker / Origin
While classical Ko-Kutani (old Kutani) dates to the 17th century, revival kilns throughout Kanazawa and Daishōji in the late 19th and early 20th centuries revived these iconic designs for domestic tea masters and international collectors alike.
Condition & Value
Appears in good vintage condition with clean glaze surfaces and intact painted enamels. No obvious chips or cracks visible in photos; light shelf wear on the unglazed foot rim. Good overall preservation.
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.