Preliminary identification

Japanese Imari Porcelain Deep Basin Bowl, c.1880-1910

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

An exquisite Japanese Imari porcelain deep basin featuring a wide, heavily gilded rim decorated with vibrant butterflies, peonies, and swirling clouds. The interior well displays a classic underglaze blue and iron-red geometric medallion, while the exterior is adorned with delicate underglaze blue butterflies and a traditional scroll border.

Story

Nineteenth-century Western collectors fell madly in love with these vibrant Japanese wares. This basin was crafted during the Meiji era, a time when Japan opened its borders and dazzled the world with its artistic mastery.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this piece was produced in the famed kilns of Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Arita artisans became legendary for perfecting the 'Imari' style, combining rich cobalt blue underglazes with brilliant overglaze enamels and lavish gold leafing designed to catch the candlelight of European dining rooms.

Condition & Value

The basin appears to be in very good antique condition. There is minor, expected wear to the gold gilding along the high points of the rim, but the enamels remain remarkably bright and intact. No visible cracks, chips, or major restorations are apparent from the photos. Excellent preservation of the gilding commands a premium.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.