Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A lobed Japanese porcelain dish decorated in overglaze enamels with the classic 'Three Friends of Winter' (pine, bamboo, and plum) motif alongside perching swallows. The underside bears an underglaze blue inscription reading 'Genroku Twelve' (元禄十二年, corresponding to 1699) and a stylized mark ('Kaki' / 柿).
Story
In 17th-century Japan, the Kakiemon kilns mastered a creamy-white porcelain ground known as 'nigoshide' that drove European royalty wild with desire. This dish celebrates the 'Three Friends of Winter'—pine, bamboo, and plum blossom.
Maker / Origin
Sakaida Kakiemon developed Japan's first successful overglaze polychrome enameling technique in Arita during the 1640s. The distinctive palette of soft iron-red, turquoise-green, yellow, and cobalt blue against an uncrowded milky ground set the standard for Japanese export ceramics, inspiring Meissen, Chantilly, and Chelsea factories across Europe.
Condition & Value
Appears in very good condition with no visible cracks, large rim chips, or severe enamel loss; minor natural wear and kiln adhesions on the unglazed footring. Condition supports strong collector interest across its attribution tier. Value is driven heavily by dating authenticity.
Full Research
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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.