Preliminary identification

Edo Period Ko-Imari Kakiemon-Style Polychrome Enamel Dish

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

An authentic Japanese porcelain dish featuring overglaze polychrome enamels in the distinctive Kakiemon palette of iron red, turquoise green, and soft blue. The well showcases an asymmetrical flowering branch and flying insects, framed by a soft brown-glazed rim (fuchibeni) and an unglazed, slightly gritty foot ring characteristic of early Arita production.

Story

In 17th-century Japan, potters in Arita perfected vibrant overglaze enamels that stunned the world, sparking a global porcelain craze. This dish's playful insects and asymmetrical florals capture that revolutionary artistic leap.

Maker / Origin

While individual potters rarely signed early domestic wares, this piece originates from the renowned Arita kilns of Hizen Province. The style is deeply tied to the traditions established by Sakaida Kakiemon I, whose refined asymmetric painting and vivid red enamels became the gold standard for Japanese export porcelain and inspired European giants like Meissen.

Condition & Value

Good antique condition consistent with age. Exhibits expected iron pinholes and kiln dust in the well glaze, light surface wear to the iron-red enamel, and a faint linear mark near the foot ring on the underside that warrants checking for depth. Intact rims with no major chips.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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

Your first full report is on us.

See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.

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.