Preliminary identification

Japanese Kutani Porcelain Bottle Vase by Dai Nippon Kutani Tsukuru, c.1890

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

An elegant, long-necked porcelain bottle vase decorated in the classic Kutani palette of iron-red, black, and gold enamels. The body features hand-painted panels depicting traditional figures under maple trees, framed by intricate geometric and floral borders. The base bears a hand-painted iron-red mark reading 'Dai Nippon Kutani Tsukuru' (Great Japan, Kutani Made).

Story

Crafted during Japan's Meiji era, this vase was made when the country opened its borders to the West, sparking a global obsession with Japanese art. The figures depicted on the body are dressed in traditional Edo-period attire, capturing a nostalgic glimpse of old Japan for eager international collectors.

Maker / Origin

The mark on the base identifies this as a product of the Kutani workshops, a region famous for its bold, colorful overglaze enamels. During the late 19th century, highly skilled local painters collaborated in specialized studios to meet the massive Western demand for 'Exotic East' decorative arts.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in good antique condition with no visible chips or major cracks. There is minor, expected wear to the gold enamel detailing along the neck and rim, which is consistent with its age and handling. Excellent preservation of the iron-red pigments.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.