Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a 13.5 cm Japanese porcelain bowl decorated in the refined Kakiemon palette with underglaze cobalt blue and delicate overglaze enamels showing auspicious pine, bamboo, and plum (Shochikubai) alongside scattered maple leaves. The base bears a finely painted square 'kakufuku' (auspicious fortune) seal mark framed in double underglaze blue lines.
Story
Born in 17th-century Arita, Kakiemon enamels swept European royal courts with their asymmetry and milky white glaze. This bowl carries the iconic 'kakufuku' fortune mark, celebrating longevity and resilience.
Maker / Origin
The Kakiemon tradition originated with Sakaida Kakiemon in the 1640s, who mastered overglaze enamel painting on translucent porcelain in Arita. Rather than crowding the vessel, Kakiemon artists pioneered compositional balance, inspiring famous European makers like Meissen and Chantilly.
Condition & Value
The bowl exhibits light kiln dust speckling, slight glaze pinholing typical of early wood-fired kilns, and minor foot rim nibbles/roughness, with well-preserved enamel color. Minor original kiln flaws do not meaningfully detract, though true period wear confirms its antique nature and supports market value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.