Preliminary identification

Kutani Ware Porcelain Vase by Seimine, 'Cranes over Moonlit Mountains'

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A striking example of modern Kutani porcelain featuring a dramatic 'yubae' (evening glow) aesthetic with shimmering gold-leaf trees and soaring cranes.

Story

The crane is a sacred creature in Japanese lore, whispered to live for a thousand years and representing a life of 'longing for the heavens.' This specific design captures the 'Kachō-fūgetsu' philosophy—the spiritual beauty of birds and the natural…

Maker / Origin

The signature 'Seimine' (清峰) represents a respected workshop within the Kutani tradition, a region in Ishikawa Prefecture famous for bold overglaze painting since 1655.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips or cracks. The gold work is remarkably crisp with no signs of the 'rubbing' or thinning often seen on pieces that have been handled frequently. The original wooden display base adds significantly to the presentation and value.

Full Research

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

Build on this identification

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD