Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking Japanese porcelain dish featuring a soft pale-green celadon outer rim molded into a petal-fluted (foliate) edge. The central medallion is hand-painted in cobalt blue underglaze with traditional botanical motifs including pine, bamboo, and plum blossom (Sho-Chiku-Bai). The underside reveals kiln spur marks and a apocryphal Chinese Chenghua reign mark typical of Edo-period Imari production.
Story
Edo-period potters in Arita combined soft Chinese-style celadon glazing with vibrant Japanese indigo brushwork to delight prosperous merchant patrons. Notice the tiny spur marks on the bottom—these show where the dish rested on ceramic pegs inside the kiln.
Maker / Origin
Produced by master ceramic artists in the famous Arita kiln region of Hizen Province, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Arita kilns were legendary for their sophisticated balance of imported continental techniques and distinct native aesthetic sensibilities.
Condition & Value
The dish exhibits light surface wear consistent with age, alongside small dark spots in the glaze from kiln iron impurities. Fine hairline craze/firing lines are visible near the outer rim, which moderately affects value but confirms authentic early production.
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.