Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This delicate Japanese porcelain sencha cup (*chawan*) features hand-painted underglaze cobalt blue (*sometsuke*) depictions of pine and plum blossoms, symbolizing endurance and renewal. Accompanied by a fitted paulownia wood storage box (*tomobako*), it represents the refined aesthetic of Japanese tea culture.
Story
Brewing loose-leaf green tea in 19th-century Japan was an act of artistic rebellion favored by scholars over rigid court ceremonies. This petite cup was painted by hand to elevate contemplative sips.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned on the base—featuring classic double-concentric cobalt rings—this piece stems from the Hizen kiln tradition centered in Arita. Japanese porcelain masters of this period specialized in fluid, expressive brushwork using natural cobalt pigment under a soft, slightly celadon-tinted feldspathic glaze.
Condition & Value
Fair to good antique condition. There is a distinct, small chip to the foot rim unglazed base ring, along with internal firing iron spots/kiln dust typical of period kilns. The foot chip reduces value by approximately 30–40%.
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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.