Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An impressive 40.5 cm hexagonal porcelain charger featuring rich underglaze cobalt blue (sometsuke) decoration. The surface is densely painted with scrolling floral arabesques (karakusa) and birds nestled among lush peony blossoms within a barbed lobed rim. The reverse displays auspicious motifs, stylized butterflies, and a traditional two-character kiln mark within the unglazed foot ring.
Story
Crafted in the famed kilns of Arita during the late Edo period, this massive platter reflects the pinnacle of Japanese domestic blue-and-white porcelain. At over 40 centimeters across, forming and firing such a large hexagonal vessel without warping was a monumental technical achievement. It was designed to serve as a dramatic centerpiece for grand banquets in wealthy merchant or samurai households.
Maker / Origin
Produced by master artisans in the Arita porcelain region of Hizen province. During the late Edo period, local potteries refined cobalt painting techniques, developing intense, saturated shades of blue known as 'gousu' alongside intricate freehand brushwork.
Condition & Value
Appears in good antique condition overall with strong glaze luster and crisp cobalt tones. Typical age-related wear present on the foot rim, along with minor glaze anomalies from original kiln firing. Excellent presentation quality.
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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.