Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An authentic Japanese Ko-Imari porcelain soba choko (soba dipping cup) decorated in underglaze cobalt blue (sometsuke). The exterior features a mountainous landscape motif with stylized clouds and timber rafts, accented on the reverse with floating gourds/eggplant motifs, a geometric fret rim border, and a small underglaze motif at the well.
Story
During the Edo period, Tokyo’s bustling noodle shops used hand-painted porcelain cups like this, turning everyday lunch into a miniature journey past Mount Fuji.
Maker / Origin
Produced by skilled artisan potters in the legendary ceramic hub of Arita in Hizen Province. Known collectively as Ko-Imari (Old Imari), these kilns mastered underglaze cobalt and high-temperature porcelain firing, supplying everyone from shoguns to urban merchant classes.
Condition & Value
Appears in very good antique condition with minor kiln grit, tiny iron spots, and typical shelf wear on the unglazed base ring. No large chips or restorations are visible.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.