Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a Chinese blue and white porcelain deep bowl decorated in underglaze cobalt with Kui Xing, the Daoist deity of examinations, surrounded by auspicious ribbons and clouds. The flared rim exhibits intentional 'mushikui' (moth-eaten glaze frits), a hallmark of late Ming Kosometsuke wares produced for the Japanese tea ceremony market.
Story
During the tumultuous fall of the Ming dynasty, Chinese potters catered directly to Japanese tea masters who cherished imperfect, rustic beauty. The deity depicted here, Kui Xing, was invoked by scholars praying for academic triumph and high status.
Maker / Origin
Produced by private folk kilns (minyao) in Jingdezhen, these wares broke free from rigid imperial standards. Potters painted with spontaneous, calligraphic brushstrokes specifically tailored to Japanese aesthetic tastes (wabi-sabi), where natural flaws were elevated to high art.
Condition & Value
Visible glaze chipping and fritting along the flared rim, consistent with classic 'mushikui' wear typical of Kosometsuke style, alongside minor kiln grit adhering to the unglazed foot. The traditional aesthetic values this fritting, though significant modern impacts reduce value by roughly 20-30%.
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.