Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A classic tabletop Go set featuring a wooden grid board and two stone containers housed in their original graphic paper-wrapped boxes. This set represents the mid-century export boom of traditional Asian strategy games to the Western market.
Story
Go is one of the oldest board games in history, dating back over 2,500 years to ancient China. This specific set captures the post-WWII era when Japanese craftsmanship met modern graphic design for a global audience.
Maker / Origin
While the maker is not explicitly marked, the teal lattice-patterned boxes are characteristic of Japanese export sets from the Showa era. These workshops specialized in producing accessible versions of high-end traditional games for students and travelers.
Condition & Value
The set appears well-loved with some scuffing to the paper boxes and minor wear on the board surface. The completeness of the stone count is the most significant factor; missing stones would reduce the value by 20-30%. Value is driven by the presence of the original graphic boxes and the completeness of the stones.
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.