Preliminary identification

Large Japanese Ko-Imari / Kakiemon-Style Polychrome Covered Bowl (Futamono), Edo Period

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a monumental Edo-period Japanese porcelain covered bowl (futamono or kashibachi), measuring approximately 34 cm wide and over 38 cm tall. Decorated in refined overglaze enamels and underglaze blue (iro-e / nishikide) in the Kakiemon palette, it features perched songbirds among chrysanthemums and peonies, crowned with a sculpted shishi (lion dog) finial.

Story

Fired in the legendary kilns of Arita, this impressive covered bowl was designed to dazzle banquets in Edo-period Japan. Its playful shishi lion dog guards sweet confections while vibrant songbirds celebrate seasonal abundance.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this piece originates from the renowned Arita potting district in Hizen Province. Developed following the innovations of Sakaida Kakiemon in the 17th century, Arita's master enamelers perfected the delicate balance of translucent milky glaze and asymmetric polychrome floral painting.

Condition & Value

Appears to be in very good antique condition overall with bright, well-preserved enamels. There is visible dark residue or a possible minor flake on the foot rim unglazed edge, and typical kiln grit/wear consistent with 18th/early 19th-century manufacture. Condition maintains strong decorative and collector value.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Your first full report is on us.

See sold comps, value drivers, and where to sell. One complimentary report, no card required.

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.