Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking Japanese porcelain lobed dish featuring a rich lapis lazuli monochrome cobalt blue glaze ('ruri-gai') decorated with delicate gilt-painted Nanban (European/Southern Barbarian) figures. The foliate rim and five spur marks on the underside are classic hallmarks of Edo-period Arita porcelain production.
Story
During Japan's isolationist Sakoku period, Dutch traders at Dejima were the country's sole window to the West. Artisans in Arita captured these exotic foreigners in pure gold against a cobalt sky, creating a fascinating glimpse of how Edo Japan viewed Western visitors.
Maker / Origin
Crafted in the famed kilns of Arita in Hizen Province, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Artisans here perfected the specialized 'ruri' deep-blue cobalt glaze alongside intricate overglaze gilding to create luxury wares for wealthy domestic patrons and aristocratic daimyo families.
Condition & Value
The blue glaze remains vibrant with authentic spur marks visible on the base. Mild rub wear to the gilt highlights on the figures and rim consistent with age; overall well-preserved without obvious chips or repairs.
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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.