Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A Japanese Ko-Imari polychrome enamel 8-sun foliate porcelain dish decorated in the distinctive Kakiemon aesthetic. The face depicts a scholar and attendant crossing a bridge beneath flowering plum blossoms against a milky-white nigoshide-style ground, framed by a delicate brown-glazed rim (fuchibeni).
Story
In 17th-century Japan, the Kakiemon kiln mastered overglaze enamels on milky porcelain, igniting a European obsession that inspired Meissen and Chantilly. This dish captures that master aesthetic in a serene scholar scene.
Maker / Origin
Pioneered by Sakaida Kakiemon in the 1640s, the Kakiemon style transformed Japanese porcelain with asymmetrical compositions and vibrant coral-red, green, and yellow overglaze enamels. Arita workshops produced these lyrical wares for both aristocratic domestic tables and the Dutch East India Company trade.
Condition & Value
Appears well-preserved with vibrant overglaze enamels. Minor kiln dust specks, typical pinholes in the glaze, and expected footrim wear consistent with age. No obvious large breaks visible. Values for Edo-period Kakiemon-style 8-sun (approx. 23–24 cm) lobed dishes depend heavily on exact firing date, condition, and provenance.
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.