Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A set of Japanese blue-and-white porcelain tea cups (sometsuke yunomi) featuring panelled landscape vignettes and geometric roundels. The cups feature a iron-brown rim line (fuchi-beni) and underglaze cobalt hand-painted details with a square Fuku (blessing) character mark inside the base.
Story
Crafted in Hizen province during Japan's feudal Edo period, these cups were painted entirely by hand using natural cobalt underglaze. Each panel pairs serene pine-and-landscape motifs with traditional geometric mon roundels.
Maker / Origin
These pieces originate from the famed kilns around Arita in Saga Prefecture, shipped out via the nearby port of Imari. Kiln masters and painters worked in guild-like traditions, passing down formula recipes for translucent glazes and dark blue cobalt underglaze painting across generations.
Condition & Value
The photos show a set wrapped in vintage paper with visible wear consistent with age. Slight rim variations or minor kilns spots are typical for Edo period wares; individual cups need checking for hairlines or rim chips. Values for Edo period Sometsuke cups depend heavily on complete set numbers and condition.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
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.