Preliminary identification

Arita Ware Blue and White Octagonal Landscape Charger, Showa Era

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

A handsome, octagonal porcelain serving charger decorated in underglaze cobalt blue (sometsuke) with a classic Chinese-style mountain-and-water landscape (sansuiga). The wide, sloping rim features a dense geometric diaper pattern punctuated by floral cartouches, framed by a classic iron-red dressed rim (kuchibeni). The reverse is signed in underglaze blue with the maker's mark 'Kozan saku' (後山作).

Story

During the mid-20th century, Japanese ceramicists revived classical Edo-period designs to meet a booming domestic demand for traditional dining wares. This plate captures the timeless beauty of a scholar's mountain retreat, offering a miniature escape into nature during a bustling era of modernization.

Maker / Origin

The signature on the reverse reads 'Kozan saku' (後山作), representing a skilled artisan or workshop operating within the historic Arita porcelain-producing region. While not a household-name master, Kozan represents the high baseline of craftsmanship maintained by regional Arita studios during the mid-to-late 20th century.

Condition & Value

The charger appears to be in very good vintage condition with no visible cracks or major chips. There is light, age-appropriate wear on the foot rim and minor glaze crazing consistent with mid-century production. Excellent condition preserves its full decorative value.

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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.