Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This exquisite Chinese porcelain tea bowl features a hand-painted scene of the mythological child-deity Nezha riding his Wind Fire Wheels and wielding the Universe Ring. Marked on the base with a four-character iron-red 'Legu Tang Zhi' (Made for the Hall of Joyful Antiquity) studio mark, it is beautifully preserved alongside its custom Japanese silk storage pouch (shifuku) and inscribed wooden box (tomobako).
Story
Dating to the turn of the 20th century, this bowl depicts the rebellious child-god Nezha conquering the seas. It crossed the sea to Japan, where tea masters revered it so highly they crafted a custom silk pouch and signed wooden box to protect it.
Maker / Origin
The four-character mark 'Legu Tang Zhi' (樂古堂製) translates to 'Made for the Hall of Joyful Antiquity.' This was a private studio or hall mark used on high-quality porcelain commissioned for wealthy scholars, officials, or discerning collectors during the late Qing and early Republic periods, representing a refined alternative to standard imperial wares.
Condition & Value
The porcelain bowl appears to be in very good condition with no visible cracks or major chips, showing only minor wear to the gilt rim and overglaze enamels consistent with age. The accompanying wooden box and silk pouch are well-preserved, which significantly supports the overall 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.