Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A Japanese underglaze cobalt blue porcelain shallow dish depicting playful squirrels gathering fallen chestnuts beneath leafy branches, framed by stylized scalloped wash borders. The underside reveals trailing floral scrolls, spur marks from kiln supports, and a square fuku-style auspicious character mark within double rings.
Story
In Edo Japan, the squirrel and vine or nut motif symbolized fertility, cleverness, and boundless abundance. This dish brings that lively folk charm to life in deep underglaze cobalt blue.
Maker / Origin
Produced in the famed ceramic center of Arita in Saga Prefecture, where Japan's porcelain revolution began in the early 17th century. The kilns here supplied both aristocratic domestic tastemakers and the Dutch East India Company with prized wares.
Condition & Value
Visually well-preserved with clear glaze, minor kiln spur marks to base typical of period firings, and no apparent large rim chips or cracks visible in photographs. Preserved with a fitted wooden storage box (tomobako). Excellent structural integrity strongly supports value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Your first full report is on us.
See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.
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.