Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A refined set of five Japanese mold-formed rectangular porcelain dishes (mukozuke/sashimi plates) featuring fluted celadon borders, iron-brown rims, and central underglaze-blue panels depicting irises. The reverse bears a single blue character mark ('元', Moto) enclosed within double concentric blue rings on the circular foot rim.
Story
Potters in the Arita kilns combined two classic ceramic techniques—pale green celadon glaze and crisp underglaze cobalt blue—to craft these elegant serving dishes for traditional multi-course kaiseki meals.
Maker / Origin
Produced in the famed Arita porcelain kilns of Saga Prefecture, known globally for pioneering Japanese porcelain production since the early 17th century. The underglaze '元' mark indicates a specific workshop or kiln lineage within the regional porcelain network.
Condition & Value
Minor typical wear along the iron-brown rim edges and tiny kiln specks in glaze. No major cracks or chips visible in photos. Preservation of a complete 5-piece set adds significantly to value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.