Overview
A classic ceramic export plate featuring a simplified 'Blue Onion' pattern, a design that has remained a staple of kitchen decor for nearly three centuries.
Preliminary identification
Japanese Blue Onion Style Transferware Plate
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
The 'Blue Onion' pattern is actually the result of a 300-year-old game of telephone; 18th-century German artists tried to copy Chinese porcelain featuring pomegranates and peaches, but because they had never seen those fruits, they ended up drawing what looked like onions.
Maker / Origin
While the specific kiln is not identified beyond the 'JAPAN' mark, this piece likely originated from the Nagoya or Seto regions, which were the heart of Japan's ceramic industrial revolution.
Condition & Value
The plate appears to be in good vintage condition with no visible cracks or large chips. There is some minor pitting and 'pepper' spotting on the reverse side, which are manufacturing artifacts common to this grade of ceramic. Condition is consistent with age and does not significantly detract from its modest value.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD