Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A magnificent 33.3 cm Japanese Kutani porcelain charger decorated in the distinctive style of master potter Aoki Mokubei. It features a vibrant red ground populated by Chinese sages (sennin), a central white elephant, and mythical beasts, framed by a rich green and black scroll border. The underside bears the classic green-enamel square 'Fuku' (good fortune) mark, a hallmark of high-quality Kutani revival wares.
Story
Created in Ishikawa during a golden age of Japanese export art, this charger pays homage to Aoki Mokubei, one of Kyoto's legendary Edo-period masters. The central white elephant represents sacred wisdom, surrounded by playful sages riding mythical beasts.
Maker / Origin
Aoki Mokubei (1767–1833) was a celebrated Kyoto potter and painter who revitalized Kutani ceramics in the early 19th century by introducing Chinese-inspired red-ground (aka-e) designs. This late 19th or early 20th-century piece is a 'utsushi' (faithful artistic tribute) created by skilled Kutani artisans to honor Mokubei's revolutionary style and keep his legacy alive.
Condition & Value
The charger appears to be in good antique condition with light surface wear, minor kiln dust inclusions, and typical glaze crazing consistent with age. There are no obvious large chips or cracks visible in the photos, though the underside shows minor shelf wear. Excellent condition for its size.
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.