Preliminary identification

Ko-Imari Ruri-Aka-Tama Porcelain Bowl, Edo Period

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

An exquisite Japanese Ko-Imari porcelain serving bowl (Kashi-bachi) featuring a striking deep cobalt blue (ruri) exterior decorated with gold-gilt floral scrolls. The interior is brilliantly painted with bold red medallions (aka-tama), tassels, and a central underglaze blue and overglaze enamel dragon roundel, bearing an apocryphal Chinese Ming Dynasty 'Chenghua' or 'Jiajing' style mark on the base.

Story

Created in the historic kilns of Arita, this bowl was designed to dazzle elite Japanese diners. Its bold red medallions and gold-on-blue exterior represent the peak of Edo-period luxury, blending local tastes with global trade ambitions.

Maker / Origin

While the specific workshop remains anonymous, this piece was crafted by master artisans in the Arita region, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. These craftsmen perfected the difficult multi-firing technique required to combine underglaze blue, overglaze enamels, and delicate gold leaf on a single vessel.

Condition & Value

The bowl appears to be in very good antique condition. There is some expected light wear to the gold gilding on the exterior floral scrolls and the rim, which is typical for a piece of this age. No major cracks or chips are immediately visible in the photos. Excellent preservation of the red enamel inside.

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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.