Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This charming set of five square porcelain dishes (kakuzara / meimeizara) is decorated in traditional Iroe polychrome overglaze enamels. The interior depicts a scholar and attendant beneath a pine tree with distant hills, while the undersides feature dynamic iron-red arrows and an underglaze blue square 'Fuku' (good fortune) mark within a tall foot rim.
Story
Rooted in 19th-century Japanese tea gatherings, these square dishes brought vibrant Kutani enamels to formal Kaiseki dining, each sealed with a classic 'Fuku' mark for good fortune.
Maker / Origin
While styled after 17th-century 'Ko-Kutani' prototypes, sets of this type were produced during the Kutani revival kilns of the 19th century (such as the Yoshidaya, Miyamotoya, or Kasugayama traditions in Kaga Province), which resurrected bold color palettes for domestic connoisseurs.
Condition & Value
The set of five appears well-preserved with vibrant enamels intact and no obvious large cracks or repairs visible in photos; typical minor kiln grit, glaze pinholes, and light rim wear consistent with 19th-century production. Minor edge chips would reduce value moderately.
Full Research
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.
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.