Edo Period Porcelain: A Review of Four Recent Sales

This article reviews four recently sold pieces of Edo period porcelain, showcasing the diversity and range of items available to collectors. From a substantial Heian Katani bowl boasting a vibrant color palette to smaller, more delicate plates with intricate designs, the selection highlights the artistry and craftsmanship of the era. Prices varied considerably, reflecting factors such as size, condition, provenance, and the degree of artistic detail. The review examines both readily identifiable pieces and more enigmatic items, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of acquiring Edo period porcelain.The analysis delves into the specifics of each piece, including their origins, stylistic features, and the potential implications of their design choices. While some pieces offer clear value propositions for collectors based on their age, provenance, and condition, others present more ambiguity requiring a deeper understanding of the market and a discerning eye for unique artistry. Ultimately, the review serves as a guide to navigating the complexities of collecting Edo period porcelain, highlighting the exciting possibilities and potential challenges awaiting enthusiasts.

Pros And Cons

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Heian Katani Amari Enamel and Porcelain Bowl

This mid-to-early 20th-century Heian Katani Amari enamel and porcelain bowl showcases a deep red and older green color palette, with an intriguing black element that may be a deep blue. The piece features a well-stylized design and exhibits fading in the leaf details, indicating its age. The bowl's old base shape and blue painting around the base contribute to its overall aesthetic appeal. Its listing by a Baumann collection adds to its authenticity and desirability.

The bowl is a substantial size and was sold for $195. Considering its age and the Edo period category, this price point represents a bargain for collectors of Asian art, especially those interested in acquiring pieces from this era.

Small Swallow Plate from Shangri-La, Amsterdam

This 18th-19th century piece, sourced from Shangri-La in Amsterdam, is a small plate featuring a stylized swallow design. The plate exhibits a Greek key border and a deep cobalt blue on a white base, demonstrating impressive brushwork. It shows signs of use, reflecting its age. The piece sold for between $28.88 and $92.

The back of the plate reveals a base with three small marks, likely where it was broken off from a larger piece during manufacturing. Despite its use, it's in good condition and its size (224 millimeters) is larger than initially anticipated. It's a charming piece for collectors of smaller decorative plates.

Edo Period Artwork with Kangxi Revival Style

This piece, also from Ceramics and Collectibles in Amsterdam, exhibits exquisite Edo-period artwork and stylization. The hand-done border work and popular patterning are immediately apparent. The plate features several scenes, suggesting a Kangxi revival style, likely produced for the Chinese market.

It includes a pictorial mark characteristic of this revival period which attempted to mimic Chinese styles while incorporating Japanese elements. This piece demonstrates an attempt to sell these pieces as original artwork.

Unusual Edo Period Piece: A Unique Find

The final piece is a highly unusual and intriguing item, selling for just under $400. The handmade quality is evident, but the image quality is not optimal, making it difficult to fully assess the details. The base offers more confidence in its authenticity than the rest of the piece.

The piece's unusual design makes it stand out. The raised and textured elements are intriguing, and the process used to create it is uncertain. This piece is a unique find even if its age is hard to determine.

Conclusion: A Diverse Selection of Edo Period Porcelain

The four pieces reviewed represent a diverse selection of Edo period porcelain, ranging in style, size, and price. While some, like the Heian Katani bowl, offered clear value, others, such as the unusual final piece, presented more ambiguity due to image quality and design uniqueness.

For serious collectors, each piece offers a unique opportunity to add to their collection. The value proposition depends on individual preferences and the collector's priorities.