Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This trefoil or stylized pine-needle-shaped dish features three reserved, crackle-glazed white egrets set against a rich iron-rust glaze (sabi-yu). Modelled closely after celebrated Edo-period Nabeshima and Suisaka-hand prototypes, this piece was crafted as an exquisite vessel for kaiseki tea-ceremony dining and is housed in an inscribed paulownia wood tomobako.
Story
Three egrets huddle against dark iron glaze, reviving an iconic 17th-century Nabeshima design. Made for formal kaiseki dining, this dish bridges Edo clan mastery with modern Japanese tea aesthetics.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned on the porcelain body—true to aristocratic Nabeshima tradition—the piece comes from modern Arita kiln masters who specialize in reviving historic Saga clan wares. The accompanying wooden tomobako is brushed with calligraphy identifying the style as 'Nabeshima Sabi-yu Sagi-mon Sara' (Nabeshima Rust-Glazed Egret Dish) alongside an artist or kiln seal mark.
Condition & Value
The dish is in excellent condition with no visible chips, cracks, or restorations. The iron glaze and reserved egret figures show clean preservation, and the original storage box is intact. Pristine condition supports top-tier market interest for tea-ceremony utensils.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.