Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a fascinating study pair of Chinese porcelain bowls representing two distinct ceramic traditions of the late Qing dynasty. One is a soft, pale-green Longquan-style celadon bowl featuring carved exterior lotus petals and an incised interior blossom, while the other is a vibrant Famille Rose (Fencai) bowl decorated with scholars and figures, bearing a red iron-red Tongzhi reign mark on the base.
Story
Created during the twilight of imperial China, these two bowls represent a dialogue between ancient monochrome elegance and the colorful narrative style of the 19th-century court. They were preserved together in Japan inside a custom-inscribed wooden tomobako.
Maker / Origin
While the celadon bowl recalls the legendary Song dynasty kilns of Longquan, it was likely produced in the late Qing period as an archival revival piece. The companion bowl bears the mark of the Tongzhi Emperor's reign (1861–1875), a period known for reviving imperial porcelain production after the devastating Taiping Rebellion.
Condition & Value
Both bowls appear to be in good antique condition with no major visible cracks or large chips. There is minor wear to the overglaze enamels on the figural bowl and typical firing imperfections, kiln grit, and minor staining on the unglazed foot rings. The custom wooden box shows age-related wear but remains structurally sound.
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.