Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A refined Japanese porcelain square dish (kakuzara) featuring an underglaze blue (sometsuke) waterside pavilion and mountain landscape, complemented by a comb-tooth (kushide) foot ring and reverse floral sprigs. This piece directly matches official Nabeshima presentation ware patterns documented in historical kiln literature.
Story
Nabeshima porcelain was never made to be sold; it was created under strict secrecy as tribute gifts for the Shogun and elite samurai lords. Every flawless stroke was held to imperial perfection.
Maker / Origin
Produced exclusively by the Nabeshima clan's official kilns secluded in the mountains of Okawachiyama. Master potters worked under rigorous clan oversight where flawed pieces were intentionally destroyed to protect proprietary formulas and maintain elite craftsmanship.
Condition & Value
Displays a small lacquer/gold repair (kintsugi) on the right outer rim and faint kiln impurities. Otherwise, the glaze and cobalt painting remain exceptionally well preserved; the rim repair reduces commercial auction value by roughly 25-35%.
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.