Japanese Kakiemon-Style Enameled Porcelain Lobed Bowl (Karako Motif), Edo to Meiji Period

Story

In 17th-century Japan, the Kakiemon kiln mastered vivid overglaze enamels on milky porcelain, sparking a global frenzy from Kyoto to European royalty. This bowl's playful karako motif celebrated childhood vitality and auspicious joy.

Maker / Origin

Pioneered by Sakaida Kakiemon in the mid-17th century in Arita, the Kakiemon style revolutionized porcelain by using negative white space and translucent iron-red, turquoise, and blue enamels rather than dense overall patterns. Kakiemon wares became so coveted that Europe's top manufactories, including Meissen and Chantilly, spent decades directly copying them.

Condition & Value

Appears to be in very good antique condition with no visible cracks, chips, or major glaze losses in the provided photos. Preserved with its traditional wooden storage box (tomobako) and ribbon. Excellent condition on early Arita porcelain commands a strong collector premium.