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Preliminary identification

Pair of Japanese Edo Period Ai-Kakiemon Style Lobed Dishes (Mokkō-gata)

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

A refined pair of Japanese blue-and-white (Ai-Kakiemon style) porcelain dishes potted in an elongated lobed mokkō (quince blossom) form.

Story

During Japan's lavish Genroku era (1688–1704), banqueting culture flourished among the merchant and samurai elites. These dishes merged Chinese scholar motifs with Japanese asymmetrical grace to celebrate good fortune at the table.

Maker / Origin

Produced in the premier kilns of Arita, these dishes represent the 'Ai-Kakiemon' tradition—underglaze blue wares made with the same delicate precision and pristine porcelain body as the famous polychrome enameled Kakiemon wares.

Condition & Value

The dishes appear to be in very good antique condition with clear glaze, strong cobalt tone, and intact footrims. Minor typical firing imperfections and kiln grit on the underside are consistent with period kiln stacking.

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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.