Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
A stunning Japanese porcelain charger featuring a finely hand-painted 'Goshoguruma' (imperial court carriage) surrounded by lush peonies and cherry blossoms. It comes complete with its original signed tomobako (wooden presentation box), bearing the mark of the Hakuzan kiln.
Story
During the Heian period, noble court elites traversed Kyoto in these elegant ox-drawn carriages. This charger revives that golden age of classical romance, transforming a vehicle of ancient aristocracy into a canvas of vibrant porcelain art.
Maker / Origin
Produced by the Hakuzan kiln in Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Arita's workshops have spent over 400 years perfecting the balance of brilliant underglaze blues and rich overglaze enamels, a legacy beautifully preserved in this modern studio piece.
Condition & Value
The charger appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or crazing. The gold enamel detailing shows minimal to no wear, and the accompanying wooden tomobako is well-preserved. Excellent condition with original packaging commands the higher end of the value range.
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.