Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite Japanese Ko-Imari porcelain square dish featuring canted corners, decorated in underglaze blue and vibrant overglaze iron-red enamel with gilt accents. The central medallion depicts a coiled celestial dragon framed by scrolling foliage, auspicious phoenixes, and stylized brocade panels.
Story
Born from the legendary climbing kilns of Arita, this vibrant plate joined the grand banquets of Edo Japan, celebrating wealth and longevity through fiery dragon motifs.
Maker / Origin
Produced by unnamed masters in the historic ceramic center of Arita, where specialized guilds separated the high-heat underglaze cobalt firings from the delicate low-temperature muffle kiln enameling.
Condition & Value
Appears in very good antique condition with light kiln iron spots visible on the underside glaze, intact rim contours, and well-preserved overglaze enamels. Minor rubbing to the gilding is consistent with age.
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.