Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an antique Japanese underglaze blue and white porcelain dish with a lobed rim, featuring traditional flora and rockwork motifs. The underside displays an underglaze blue square seal mark and distinct spur marks (hari-ato) on the base, characteristic of historic Arita kiln firing techniques.
Story
Fired in the historic kilns of Hizen province during Japan's Edo period, this dish rested on tiny ceramic spurs inside a saggar to prevent its glaze from fusing during high-temperature firing.
Maker / Origin
Produced by potters in the Arita region of Saga Prefecture, the cradle of Japanese porcelain. Arita kilns supplied both refined domestic markets, such as Kaiseki dining culture, and historic global trade through the Dutch East India Company.
Condition & Value
The dish displays authentic firing imperfections, minor iron spots, and clear spur scars on the foot consistent with period manufacture. Appears to be well preserved without obvious large chips, though close inspection for fine hairlines is recommended; structural sound condition maintains full collector appeal.
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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.