Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This exquisite hand-painted porcelain sake cup (sakazuki) features a delicate bijinga (portrait of a beautiful woman) executed in the artistic style of Edo-period ukiyo-e master Katsukawa Shunzan. The interior display shows fine brushwork in overglaze enamels capturing intricate kimono patterns and elaborate hair ornaments, accompanied by a fitted wooden storage box (tomobako) with calligraphy inscriptions.
Story
During Japan's Edo period, drinking sake was an intimate ritual where artwork revealed itself as the cup was emptied. Artisans transferred the popular ukiyo-e woodblock aesthetic onto tiny porcelain canvases for wealthy patrons. This cup preserves that floating world culture directly in the palm of your hand.
Maker / Origin
Katsukawa Shunzan was an important late-18th century Japanese ukiyo-e artist and pupil of Katsukawa Shunshō. Known for his graceful depictions of beautiful women (bijinga) and actors, his style blended the strong lineage of the Katsukawa school with the gentle elegance of Torii Kiyonaga.
Condition & Value
The painted enamel figure remains vivid and well-preserved. There appears to be light rim wear and minor aging to the wooden box, which is standard for authentic 19th-century Japanese ceramics. Good overall preservation supports its 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.