Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking Japanese porcelain charger featuring a hand-painted underglaze blue scene of irises along a zigzag plank bridge (Yatsuhashi). The outer border is richly decorated with complex geometric patterns and tasselled curtains, while the reverse bears a six-character apocryphal Ming dynasty mark.
Story
The central bridge and iris motif references a famous 10th-century romantic poem from The Tales of Ise. Japanese potters frequently added prestigious Chinese Ming Dynasty marks to honor historic craftsmanship rather than deceive.
Maker / Origin
Arita was the heartland of Japanese porcelain production starting in the early 17th century after porcelain stone was discovered in Saga Prefecture. Kilns in Imari crafted exquisite blue-and-white wares (Sometsuke) that captured the imaginations of collectors across East Asia and Europe.
Condition & Value
Good overall antique condition with visible kiln spur marks and minor glaze irregularities on the base consistent with age and traditional firing methods. No major cracks or structural chips visible on the main display face.
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.