Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This exquisite blue and white (sometsuke) porcelain bowl features a striking alternating checkerboard (ichimatsu) pattern containing stylized scrolling vines (karakusa), punctuated by a prominent imperial-style chrysanthemum crest (kiku-mon). The design represents a masterful blend of classical auspicious motifs and bold, graphic geometry that feels remarkably modern despite its antiquity.
Story
Created during a time of monumental transition in Japan, this bowl combines the ancient imperial chrysanthemum with the playful checkerboard pattern popularized by 18th-century Kabuki actor Sanogawa Ichimatsu.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece is a product of the legendary Arita kilns in Hizen Province, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. During the late Edo and early Meiji eras, these workshops transitioned from serving domestic feudal lords to captivating international audiences with their brilliant cobalt underglazes.
Condition & Value
The bowl is in good antique condition overall, with beautiful glaze luster and strong cobalt color. There is a small, visible flea bite or tiny chip on the upper rim (indicated by the red arrow in the owner's photo) and minor kiln grit/pinholes inside the bowl. The minor rim nick reduces the potential value by approximately 20-30%.
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.