Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite crane-neck porcelain vase (tsurukubi) featuring a dynamic underglaze blue design of a dragon amidst crashing waves and clouds. Handcrafted by the 14th generation Tsuji Hitachi, this piece represents the pinnacle of Imperial-grade Arita porcelain, complete with its original double tomobako (wooden presentation boxes) and protective silk pouch.
Story
For over 350 years, the Tsuji family served as the exclusive porcelain purveyors to the Japanese Imperial Court. This specific design was selected as a formal presentation gift to the Emperor and Empress of Japan, carrying centuries of sacred artistic lineage in its brushstrokes.
Maker / Origin
The Tsuji Hitachi kiln is legendary in Japan as the first to receive the official title of Purveyor to the Imperial Household Agency (Kunaicho Goyo-tashi) during the Edo period. The 14th generation master, Tsuji Hitachi (1909-2007), dedicated his life to preserving the secret, ultra-refined white clay recipes and deep cobalt blue glazes that defined his family's imperial legacy.
Condition & Value
The vase appears to be in pristine, museum-quality condition with no visible chips, cracks, or glaze imperfections. The double wooden boxes and silk storage bag have preserved the porcelain perfectly for decades, which greatly maximizes its market value.
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.