{"title":"Antiques $300+ — Collector Pieces","description":"\u003cp\u003eCollector-tier and investment-grade antique Japanese ceramics — pieces of meaningful provenance, attribution, and condition. Many carry verifiable maker's marks, original wood storage boxes (tomobako), and inscription papers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll pieces $300+ ship insured by EMS or DHL with full antique customs documentation. Make-an-offer is available on selected listings.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"vintage-fukagawa-seiji-kurenai-sake-set-1977","title":"Vintage 1977 Fukagawa Seiji Kurenai Sake Set — 2 Tokkuri \u0026 5 Ochoko, Arita Porcelain","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA vintage 1977 sake set by Fukagawa Seiji — the Arita house historically recognized as a supplier to the Japanese Imperial Household since 1910. The \"Kurenai\" (くれない \/ 紅) pattern carries five-color autumn maple leaves in the maker's signature Iro-e Saiji overglaze technique. Sold complete with original maker box, brand history pamphlet, original Marushin (Tokushima) retail voucher dated to 1977, and Marushin certification sticker — the full original-retail provenance.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's in the set (7 pieces total)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2 × tokkuri (徳利)\u003c\/strong\u003e sake bottles — height 13.5 cm (5.3\"), base 5 cm (2.0\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 × ochoko (お猪口)\u003c\/strong\u003e sake cups — height 5.5 cm (2.2\"), mouth 4 cm (1.6\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne tokkuri carries an additional gold-script painter's signature 「圭史」 (Keishi) on the foot, alongside the standard Fukagawa Seiji Mt. Fuji + flowing-water (富士流水) mark and the maker's stamp 「深川製」. The second tokkuri carries the standard mark only. All five ochoko carry the standard mark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Kurenai (くれない) pattern\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Kurenai\" — Japanese for crimson — is Fukagawa Seiji's official name for this autumn maple-leaf pattern. Each leaf is rendered in pointillistic Iro-e Saiji enamel, layered in five colors:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVermilion red (紺色) — the late-autumn ripeness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCobalt blue (藍) — the receding sky\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSage green (萌葱) — leaves still in transition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGold (金) — caught light, the moment of brilliance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoft red lacquer (朱) — the supporting stems and twigs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaves cluster on the upper shoulders of each piece in a \"drift\" composition — the visual logic of leaves carried by autumn wind, settling on a still surface. Gold rims complete each cup and bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout the maker — Fukagawa Seiji\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFukagawa Seiji (深川製磁) was founded in 1894 in Arita, Saga, by Fukagawa Tadatsugu, a descendant of the six-generation Imari-Arita Fukagawa pottery clan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1900\u003c\/strong\u003e — Grand Prix (highest gold medal) at the Paris Exposition Universelle for Iro-e Saiji vases\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e1910\u003c\/strong\u003e — Officially designated by the Japanese Imperial Household Ministry (宮内省御用達（1910 historical record）), with historical documentation through Taishō, Shōwa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIro-e Saiji\u003c\/strong\u003e — the maker's signature technique developed by Fukagawa Tadatsugu: overglaze enamels fused into the porcelain at high temperature in a single firing; colours integrated into the glaze rather than sitting on top of it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular set was retailed in 1977 by \u003cstrong\u003eMarushin (丸新)\u003c\/strong\u003e, a Tokushima department store, for ¥20,000 — a substantial gift-tier price at that time, equivalent in purchasing power to an upper-mid-range department-store gift today. The original Marushin retail voucher is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProvenance (three independent confirmations)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaker mark\u003c\/strong\u003e: Fukagawa Seiji Mt. Fuji + 流水 + 「深川製」 underglaze cobalt mark on every piece\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePainter's signature\u003c\/strong\u003e: gold-script 「圭史」 on one tokkuri — a Fukagawa workshop painter signature, present on the lead bottle of the pair\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOriginal retail receipt\u003c\/strong\u003e: Marushin (丸新, Tokushima) printed retail voucher with original ¥20,000 retail price and Marushin certification sticker — establishes 1977 retail-date provenance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDimensions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTokkuri (sake bottle)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: 13.5 cm (5.3\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFoot diameter: 5.0 cm (2.0\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOchoko (sake cup)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: 5.5 cm (2.2\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMouth diameter: 4.0 cm (1.6\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to use \/ who it's for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAutumn dinners, harvest moon (Tsukimi) gatherings, year-end celebrations — the Kurenai pattern is seasonally tied to October–November but reads as warm-tone tableware year-round\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWedding gift, anniversary gift, or housewarming for collectors of fine Japanese porcelain — particularly anyone with a Fukagawa Seiji or historical Imperial Household designation interest\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA reference example of late-Showa Iro-e Saiji autumn-leaf composition, with documented original-retail provenance — a strong piece for serious collectors of Japanese ceramics history\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor the careful host: the 2-tokkuri configuration lets you serve two sakes side-by-side (e.g., one warm, one chilled, or two contrasting brews)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent vintage condition. The set appears unused. All gold rims are intact and unworn. The Iro-e Saiji enamel pattern is bright and complete on every piece. The painter's signature on the lead tokkuri is clean and unsmudged. The original maker box has minor age-related softening at corners, consistent with 1977 storage; the retail voucher is intact and legible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-wash with warm water and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or nylon scrubbers (they will scratch the gold rim and Iro-e Saiji surface).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo microwave (gold rim).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo oven.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-wash recommended over dishwasher for any signed vintage piece of this age — extended dishwasher cycles will eventually wear the painted enamel.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid sudden temperature shock when serving warm sake — pre-warm the tokkuri gradually with warm (not hot) water before adding heated sake.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat you receive\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 × Fukagawa Seiji Kurenai tokkuri (one with 「圭史」 painter signature, one with standard mark only)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 × Fukagawa Seiji Kurenai ochoko\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original Fukagawa Seiji presentation box (0700-190 \/ くれない 酒器揃)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × printed Fukagawa Seiji brand history pamphlet (Japanese)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original Marushin (丸新, Tokushima) retail voucher dated to 1977 (¥20,000)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original Marushin certification sticker\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZenKiln care card (English translation of key care points)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShips from Japan within 1–3 business days, hand-packed inside the original 1977 maker box plus exterior cushioning for international transit. International tracking included. Buyers outside Japan are responsible for any local customs duties or taxes.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":47643485896934,"sku":"SAK-ARI-SHL-00003","price":368.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_55abe1d1-9c3a-48a6-98fc-b6e44b182f57.png?v=1780209082"},{"product_id":"vintage-nambu-satetsu-kyusu-kiyosue-sakura","title":"Vintage Nambu Satetsu Kyusu by Kiyosue — Sakura Cast Iron Teapot, Morioka, Signed Tomobako","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA vintage sand-iron kyusu (急須) by Kiyosue (清末) at the Shōkōdō house in Morioka, Iwate — Japan's four-century heritage center for cast-iron tea ware. Sold complete with signed paulownia tomobako, original Nambu Tekki Cooperative authenticity sticker, brass strainer, and the maker's printed leaflet.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat this is\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA small Nambu satetsu (砂鉄, sand iron) kyusu — the design name from the maker is \"Manōsakukyūro\" (萬桜咲久露), \"myriad cherry blossoms with morning dew\". The upper half of the body is covered in deeply-cast cherry and plum blossom relief, the lower half left in a hammered Nambu ground. The lid carries matching blossom relief with a bud-shaped finial. The handle is twist-bound iron with a central knot at the apex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eForm\u003c\/strong\u003e: kyusu (小型急須 \/ small Japanese teapot for personal use)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial\u003c\/strong\u003e: satetsu (砂鉄) — sand iron, the premium Nambu grade\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDesign\u003c\/strong\u003e: Manōsakukyūro 萬桜咲久露 (multi-layer plum\/cherry blossom)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEra\u003c\/strong\u003e: Showa post-war (estimated 1965–1980)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade by\u003c\/strong\u003e 合名会社 照亦製作所 (Shōeki Seisakujo) under the 照光堂 (Shōkōdō) brand in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, curated by ZenKiln\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Nambu Tekki\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNambu Tekki (南部鉄器) is the traditional cast iron ware of Morioka (盛岡), in northern Japan's Iwate Prefecture. The craft has been continuously practiced for more than four hundred years, with iron sand from the local mountains historically used as the raw material. Nambu pieces are recognized for their characteristic granular surface texture, slow heat retention, and the way the surface develops a soft patina with regular use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe cooperative sticker on this piece — 「南部鉄器協同組合 \/ 本場盛岡」 — certifies it as an authentic Morioka product, made by a workshop in the recognized regional cooperative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout satetsu (砂鉄)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe kettle is made of satetsu — literally \"sand iron\" — the premium grade of Nambu material gathered from the magnetite-rich black sand deposits of the Kitakami highlands. Compared with ordinary cast iron, satetsu pieces are lighter for the same size, have a denser grain, and are prized by serious tea practitioners. The maker's leaflet specifically identifies this piece as a 「南部砂鉄急須」.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout the maker\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe piece is signed by the maker on the wooden box: brush calligraphy 「清末作」 (made by Kiyosue) with a matching red seal 「清末」. Kiyosue worked at 合名会社 照亦製作所 (Shōeki Seisakujo Limited Partnership), the workshop under the heritage brand 照光堂 (Shōkōdō) in Morioka. The printed leaflet inside the box is published by the workshop itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDimensions (this exact piece, measured)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTotal height with handle raised\u003c\/strong\u003e: 12.5 cm (4.9\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody height with handle folded down\u003c\/strong\u003e: 6.0 cm (2.4\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody maximum width\u003c\/strong\u003e: 9.0 cm (3.5\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMouth diameter (lid opening)\u003c\/strong\u003e: 7.0 cm (2.8\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoot diameter\u003c\/strong\u003e: 5.0 cm (2.0\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight (kettle only)\u003c\/strong\u003e: 500 g (17.6 oz \/ 1.1 lb)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight with paulownia box\u003c\/strong\u003e: 700 g (24.7 oz \/ 1.5 lb)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTomobako\u003c\/strong\u003e: 14.5 × 14.5 × 11 cm (5.7\" × 5.7\" × 4.3\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrewing capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e: approximately 180–220 mL when filled to brim (sized for personal use or premium-tea ritual)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat you receive\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × Nambu satetsu kyusu (the iron kettle with lid)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × brass tea strainer (perforated, with brass-gold finish — sits inside the kettle to filter loose tea leaves)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × signed paulownia tomobako (kiribako) with brush calligraphy + red seal on the inside lid\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × original 「南部砂鉄急須の栞」 printed leaflet (the maker's product information, Japanese)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e1 × 「南部鉄器協同組合 \/ 本場盛岡」 authenticity sticker\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eZenKiln care card (English care instructions)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to use \/ who it's for\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBrewing high-grade green teas (gyokuro, sencha, hojicha) where small yield + slow heat retention bring out depth in the leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eTea ceremony or tea-table accent piece — collectors of Nambu tekki particularly value pre-1980 satetsu work\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eA father's day, retirement, or anniversary gift for someone with an interest in Japanese craft history or tea culture\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent vintage condition. The blossom relief is crisp, the hammered ground below is unworn, and the brass-coated interior and strainer are clean. The exterior shows the soft natural patina of cared-for satetsu — this is a feature of the material, not a flaw. The tomobako shows normal age-softening at corners; the seal and brush signature are clean and legible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCare\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eNever put in dishwasher, microwave, or oven.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eAfter each use, empty the kettle, rinse with hot water (not soap), and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eAvoid leaving water inside for extended periods — moisture is the main cause of iron rust.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eIf a thin patina or light surface tarnish develops, the maker's leaflet recommends gentle polishing with charcoal powder once a week for the natural silver-grey luster characteristic of satetsu.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eIf you find any cracks or damage, discontinue use immediately for safety.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic and metalwork tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eReference conversions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e12.5 cm = 4.9\" · 9.0 cm = 3.5\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e7.0 cm = 2.8\" · 5.0 cm = 2.0\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e500 g ≈ 1.1 lb · 700 g ≈ 1.5 lb\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e200 mL ≈ 6.8 fl oz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003chr\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShips from Japan within 1–3 business days, hand-packed inside the original signed tomobako with exterior cushioning for international transit. International tracking included. Buyers outside Japan are responsible for any local customs duties.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47647693865190,"sku":"TEA-XXX-SHM-00004","price":628.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_439b736c-7a04-490a-804a-953ef879ae43.png?v=1780216186"},{"product_id":"vintage-1975-koransha-phalaenopsis-orchid-plate-set-of-5-arita-yaki","title":"Vintage 1975 Kōransha Phalaenopsis Plate Set of 5 — Japanese Arita-yaki Porcelain Mid-Plates","description":"\u003cp\u003eA 1975 (昭和50年 \/ Shōwa 50) set of five Koransha (香蘭社) phalaenopsis-orchid plates — hand-finished porcelain mid-plates with a soft mint-celadon ground sweeping across each plate and meeting a clean white field, where the orchids bloom. Originally retailed at \u003cstrong\u003e¥50,000 JPY\u003c\/strong\u003e through Takashimaya Kyoto Store's 6F tableware floor in 1975 — a substantial outlay at a time when a graduate's monthly starting salary was around ¥85,000–90,000. The set comes with its full original presentation: the Koransha gift box, the bilingual maker hakogaki, the Koransha green logo card, and the Takashimaya お願い courtesy card.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eForm: 中皿 (chū-zara \/ mid-plate) — flat coupe-rim plate, 5-piece presentation set (五客揃)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMaterial: high-fired white porcelain (磁器) with hand-finished overglaze decoration\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003ePattern: 胡蝶蘭 (kochōran) — phalaenopsis \/ moth orchid, two-bloom + bud composition with yellow-green leaves and pink-red labellum detail\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eProduction year: 1975 (昭和50年 \/ Shōwa 50) — 51-year-old vintage\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eOriginal retail (1975 Takashimaya Kyoto Store): ¥50,000 JPY\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eDiameter: ~16.7 cm (6.6\") per plate\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eHeight (rim profile): ~1.8 cm (0.7\") per plate\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eBox: original Koransha gift box ~35.9 × 18.5 × 5 cm (14.1\" × 7.3\" × 2.0\"), with bar-code label \u003ccode\u003e胡蝶蘭・中皿 W9104-JCS\u003c\/code\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eFoot mark: green underglaze 香蘭社 (Koransha) mark with the orchid emblem, on the underside of every plate\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eIncluded paper accessories: (1) bilingual Koransha \"300 YEARS OF KORAN-SHA \/ 香蘭社のあゆみ\" hakogaki pamphlet (2) Koransha green logo card with the orchid emblem (3) Takashimaya 京都店 お願い courtesy card from the 6F tableware floor\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003eMade by 香蘭社 (Koransha) \/ Arita-yaki in Saga Prefecture, Japan, curated by ZenKiln\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Koransha (hakogaki-cited context)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKoransha (香蘭社, \"Orchid Group\") traces its lineage to the eighth-generation Fukagawa potters of Arita, whose family had been firing porcelain in Saga for some three hundred years when Meiji-era restructuring opened the way for them to organize as an independent company in the 1870s. The bilingual hakogaki enclosed with this set narrates the early international recognition — the Grand Prix at the 1878 Paris International Exhibition, an honor at the United States 1876 exhibition, the Gold Medal at the 1900 Paris Exposition — and historically documented commissions placed with Koransha by the Imperial Household of Japan. The Koran-sha style was built by blending three of Japan's defining porcelain traditions, Old Imari, Nabeshima, and Kakiemon, into a single contemporary vocabulary. The phalaenopsis pattern in this set is one of the company's enduring botanical designs, named for the moth-orchid that takes its name in Japanese, 胡蝶蘭 (kochōran), from the resemblance to a butterfly in flight. By 1975, when this particular set was retailed through Takashimaya Kyoto Store's 6F tableware floor at ¥50,000, Koransha's pattern range had become a fixed reference within Japanese department-store gift culture — the 5-piece (五客揃) format was the traditional milestone-celebration gift unit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eUse \u0026amp; Care\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA mid-plate (中皿) at 16.7 cm sits squarely in the dessert \/ wagashi \/ appetizer \/ canapé band. Per the Koransha care card included with this set: hand-wash with mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge; metal utensils and abrasive cleansers can scratch the porcelain surface; oven-use is restricted to items specifically marked as oven-ware (this plate is not so marked); avoid sudden temperature change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGifting \u0026amp; Presentation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 五客揃 (5-piece set) is Japan's standard hospitality-and-gift presentation unit — one plate per guest, ready for a dinner party, a tea-gathering wagashi course, or a milestone celebration. Phalaenopsis is the most prestigious gift-flower in modern Japan, associated with elegance and congratulations; the pattern's traditional pairings are wedding gifts, anniversary gifts, housewarming, retirement, and Father's Day. The full original Koransha + Takashimaya presentation makes this a ready-to-give heritage set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping \u0026amp; Returns (Antique Line)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a one-of-one estate set. We do not accept returns on antique-line listings; all condition details and the maker's documentation are disclosed above and in the photos. Please ask any questions before purchase — we are happy to send additional photos of any plate or paper accessory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e📦 Ships from Japan, hand-packed for safe delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47658955800806,"sku":"ZK-PLATE-KOR-001","price":330.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_2ee1689b-65dd-42cc-a818-ecd0dd22047b.png?v=1780216833"},{"product_id":"fukagawa-seiji-1937-sometsuke-tea-set","title":"Fukagawa Seiji Pre-War Arita Sometsuke Tea Set — Kyusu + 5 Yunomi with Signed Tomobako, 1937 Showa","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA 1937 Pre-War Fukagawa Seiji Tea Set — Imperial Household Purveyor, Signed Paulownia Box, Almost Unused.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a rare opportunity to acquire a complete six-piece tea service from Fukagawa Seiji 深川製磁 — founded in 1894 in Arita, Saga Prefecture, and granted the title of \u003cem\u003eKunaisho Goyo-tashi\u003c\/em\u003e (宮内省御用達, “Purveyor to the Imperial Household”) in 1910. The set comprises one side-handle kyusu teapot and five matching yunomi cups, decorated in cobalt underglaze (sometsuke 染付) with stylized blue florals against a luminous white porcelain body, finished with hand-applied gilt rims and a gilt finial.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe set has rested in its original signed paulownia tomobako (共桐木箱) for nearly nine decades. Remarkably, the factory-original transparent protective sleeve on the teapot spout is still present — strong evidence the set was never put into daily use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSet composition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × Kyusu (横手急須, side-handle teapot) — H9.5 × ⌀10 cm body (3.7″ × 3.9″), 273 g (9.6 oz), with internal honeycomb ceramic strainer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 × Yunomi (湯呑, tea cups) — rim ⌀9 × foot ⌀4 × H5.7 cm (3.5″ × 1.6″ × 2.2″), 78 g (2.75 oz) each\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × Original signed paulownia wood box (kiribako 桐木箱)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2 × Enclosed paper cards — one vintage company-history insert, one modern care insert (the modern insert was added in later years by a previous keeper; the vintage card is original to the set)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × Original factory spout protector (transparent silicone sleeve with hanging cord)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarks \u0026amp; seals (provenance evidence)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCup foot\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMt. Fuji + 「深川製」 hand-brushed cobalt underglaze (standard Fukagawa Seiji mark)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eKyusu lid interior\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eidentical Mt. Fuji + 「深川製」 mark (premium pre-war single-marking standard)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTomobako\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ebrush-written 「茶器揃 宮内省御用達 深川製磁」 in sumi ink\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eTomobako red seals\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e「美術有田焼」 (Art Arita Ware grade), Mt. Fuji + 深川 square seal, and a quality-inspection edge stamp\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDating evidence\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ethe box vocabulary 「宮内省」 was retired in 1947 when the ministry was reorganized — placing this set definitively before 1947. The original owner identified the production year as Showa 12 (1937).\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e — Almost unused (未使用に近い)\u003cbr\u003eAll six ceramic pieces are intact and free of chips, cracks, kiln scars, and gilt wear. The interior honeycomb strainer shows no tea residue. The original spout protector — which would normally be removed and discarded on first use — is still in place, supporting the “almost unused” classification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCultural context\u003c\/strong\u003e — Fukagawa Seiji rose to international prominence with its Grand Prize at the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle and remains one of the foundational houses of modern Arita ware. The high-temperature 1350°C white porcelain body and the signature “Fukagawa Blue” tonal-gradient underglaze are unmistakable hallmarks of the studio. Pre-war Fukagawa with original tomobako is uncommon on the secondary market; complete six-piece sets in this condition are rarer still.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUse\u003c\/strong\u003e — Suited to sencha green tea or gyokuro service for a small gathering, displayed as a collectible heirloom, or as a museum-quality gift for a serious collector of Japanese ceramics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare\u003c\/strong\u003e — Hand-wash only with mild, neutral detergent and a soft cloth. Do not microwave (gilt rim and gilt finial contain metal). Do not dishwash. Avoid sudden temperature changes. Store the box in a low-humidity environment away from direct sunlight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Originally made by \u003cstrong\u003eFukagawa Seiji 深川製磁\u003c\/strong\u003e (Imperial Household Purveyor, est. 1894) in Arita, Saga Prefecture, Japan in 1937 (Showa 12), curated by ZenKiln\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbout ZenKiln — A Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping\u003c\/strong\u003e — Hand-packed in the original paulownia box, wrapped with archival tissue and a custom double-walled outer carton. Insured international tracked shipping from Japan, typically 7–14 business days. Duties \u0026amp; customs are the buyer's responsibility.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47692572786918,"sku":"TEA-ARI-SHW-00001","price":550.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_408c31eb-1b71-4c00-9a7f-03131475cf0d.png?v=1780215423"},{"product_id":"vintage-koransha-ruri-cobalt-crane-vase-arita-kabin","title":"Vintage Kōransha Ruri Cobalt Crane Vase — Gold \u0026 Silver Tsuru Pair, Arita Porcelain Kabin","description":"\u003ctable style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:15px;line-height:1.55;margin:0 0 22px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-top:1px solid #e7e7e7;border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eForm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eKabin (花瓶) — tall baluster presentation flower vase, flared rim\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eSize\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eHeight 32.0 cm (12.6″) · mouth Ø 8.5 cm (3.3″) · foot Ø 10.5 cm (4.1″)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eNot published by the maker — will be weighed before dispatch\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003ePorcelain (磁器 jiki), Arita-yaki\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eExterior glaze\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e瑠璃釉 (ruri-yū) deep midnight cobalt-blue ground\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eDecoration\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e金彩 (kinsai) married-pair cranes (夫婦鶴 fūfu-zuru) — one gold-gilt, one silver-platinum, each flight feather engraved; gold rim line, neck cusp frieze, foot band\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eInterior\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eWhite porcelain, visible at the mouth and gold-bordered foot\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eFoot mark\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e蘭花 (orchid) emblem above 「香蘭社」 in underglaze cobalt\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eMotif\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e夫婦鶴 (fūfu-zuru) married-pair crane — longevity, fidelity, good fortune\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eMaker\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e香蘭社 Kōransha, Arita (founded 1879) — parent house of Fukagawa Seiji; Imperial Household supplier since the Meiji era\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eEra\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eLate Shōwa–Heisei, estimated 1980s–2000s (documented vintage)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eExcellent — no chips, no hairlines; gold \u0026amp; silver intact; unrestored\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eTomobako\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eOriginal paulownia kiribako (tall, dovetail-jointed), signed \u0026amp; stamped\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eVase + original signed tomobako\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eVintage Koransha ruri-cobalt crane kabin — gold \u0026amp; silver fūfu-zuru\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA tall, presentation-grade baluster vase (花瓶 \/ \u003cem\u003ekabin\u003c\/em\u003e) by \u003cstrong\u003e香蘭社 Kōransha\u003c\/strong\u003e — one of the oldest continuously-operating Arita porcelain houses — finished in a deep \u003cem\u003eruri\u003c\/em\u003e (瑠璃) cobalt glaze brought to a true midnight intensity, the white porcelain showing only at the mouth and through the gold-bordered foot. Across the body, two cranes (鶴 \u003cem\u003etsuru\u003c\/em\u003e) are worked in elaborate \u003cem\u003ekinsai\u003c\/em\u003e (金彩): one gilded fully in gold, the other in silver-platinum, each flight feather individually engraved through the metal in the high-precision style for which Kōransha is recognized. A continuous gold line frames the mouth; an arch-and-dot frieze of fine gold cusps runs the neck, and the pedestal foot carries a matching gold band.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMaker \u0026amp; provenance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Made by Koransha \/ Arita-yaki in Saga Prefecture, Japan, curated by ZenKiln — a documented vintage piece acquired from a Japan-based sourcing studio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAttribution rests on a three-point closure standard:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnderglaze foot mark — a stylized 蘭花 (orchid) emblem above 「香蘭社」 in cobalt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomobako lid calligraphy — 「花瓶」 (\u003cem\u003ekabin\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTomobako side calligraphy — 「香蘭社」 with the red house seal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaker attribution is definitive\u003c\/strong\u003e (orchid foot mark + signed tomobako). \u003cstrong\u003eDating is estimated\u003c\/strong\u003e — late Shōwa to Heisei, roughly the 1980s–2000s — inferred from the tomobako condition, the decoration style, and the gold-application technique consistent with Kōransha production from that window. The 1879 founding date in the house's history is its founding year, not this vase's production year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Kōransha (香蘭社)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKōransha was founded in 1879 in Arita by 八代 深川栄左衛門 (the 8th-generation Fukagawa Eizaemon) together with other Arita masters as the first jointly-incorporated Arita export-porcelain company; it took its name and house mark from the orchid blossom (蘭花). The house has supplied the Imperial Household since the Meiji era and remains in operation today. In 1894 the founder's second son, 深川忠次 (Tadatsugu Fukagawa), left Kōransha to establish 深川製磁 Fukagawa Seiji — making Kōransha the elder \"parent\" house from which the now better-known Fukagawa Seiji branched. This vase is from the original Kōransha lineage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe crane motif\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two cranes read as a \u003cem\u003efūfu-zuru\u003c\/em\u003e (夫婦鶴), a married-pair crane. In Japanese decorative art the crane is the enduring symbol of longevity, marital fidelity, and good fortune — which makes the piece especially suited to a wedding, anniversary, or milestone gift, or simply to a corner that wants something of stature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent. The cobalt glaze surface is clean and glossy, with no chips and no hairlines in the photographed angles; the gold linework and silver gilding are intact and unworn. Unrestored and unrefinished. Additional close-up photos of the mark, foot, or any detail are available on request before purchase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDisplay \u0026amp; use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA statement vase for a tokonoma alcove, a formal-room console, a fireplace mantel, or a curated bookshelf. The narrow mouth (8.5 cm) holds a single tall stem — lily, peony, branch ikebana — or a small \u003cem\u003ekenzan\u003c\/em\u003e pin-frog for low-water work, but at 32 cm the vase is a presentation piece first and an arrangement vessel second.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHand-wash only with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive sponges, dishwashers, microwaves, and direct sunlight. The kinsai gold and silver are sensitive to friction — do not scrub. If arranging fresh flowers, line the interior with a glass tumbler to protect the glaze from mineral residue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIncluded\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × Kōransha ruri-cobalt presentation kabin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original signed paulownia tomobako\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-packed in archival tissue inside a double-walled carton from Japan; insured in transit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/strong\u003e — A Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📦 Ships from Japan, hand-packed for safe delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47725603782886,"sku":"ZK-VASE-KOR-CRANE-001","price":1588.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_5885b087-2b13-4c82-9940-4d63adb06dab.png?v=1780204068"},{"product_id":"vintage-utamaro-ukiyo-e-woodblock-reproduction-portfolio-bijin-ga","title":"Vintage Ukiyo-e Woodblock Portfolio After Utamaro — 6 Bijin-ga Ōban Reproductions, Washi Folio (Fukkokuban)","description":"\u003ctable style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:15px;line-height:1.55;margin:0 0 22px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-top:1px solid #e7e7e7;border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eObject\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eUkiyo-e woodblock print portfolio (fukkokuban 復刻版) — 6 ōban bijin-ga + original washi folio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eAttribution\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAfter Kitagawa Utamaro\u003c\/strong\u003e (喜多川歌麿, 1753–1806) — a vintage reproduction, NOT an original Edo-period print\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003ePlates\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e6 multi-block colour woodblock reproductions on washi + multilingual caption booklet\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003ePrint size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e38.2 × 26.0 cm (15.0 × 10.2″) each — full ōban (大判)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eFolio size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e49.5 × 35.5 cm (19.5 × 14.0″) closed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003e691 g (1.52 lb) — folio + 6 prints + caption book\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eMaterial\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eWashi paper (和紙); multi-block woodblock (mokuhanga)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eTechnique\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eHand-pulled multi-block colour woodblock with kentō registration (genuine woodblock, not litho\/offset)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eFolio\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eRed deckled-edge washi cover, titled 「浮世絵」(Ukiyo-e) on a seigaiha gold-pattern slip\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eEra\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eLate Shōwa, estimated 1960s–1980s (dated by the 6-language caption incl. Russian)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eSubject\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eBijin-ga (美人画, beautiful-women) — geisha, mother \u0026amp; child, hair-combing, lovers\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eExcellent — clean, full colour, no foxing, no tears\/creases; unrestored\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #e7e7e7;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;width:32%;color:#8a8a8a;font-size:12px;letter-spacing:.07em;text-transform:uppercase;vertical-align:top;\"\u003eIncluded\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding:11px 14px;vertical-align:top;color:#222;\"\u003eWashi folio + multilingual caption booklet + 6 ōban prints\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eVintage ukiyo-e woodblock portfolio — six bijin-ga after Utamaro\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA complete vintage Japanese woodblock-print portfolio of six \u003cem\u003ebijin-ga\u003c\/em\u003e (美人画 \/ beautiful-women) compositions after \u003cstrong\u003eKitagawa Utamaro\u003c\/strong\u003e (喜多川歌麿, 1753–1806), gathered in their original deckled-edge red washi folio titled 「浮世絵」(\u003cem\u003eUkiyo-e\u003c\/em\u003e). Each sheet is a multi-block colour woodblock impression on Japanese washi at full ōban size (大判, 38.2 × 26 cm) — the colour registration, kentō marks, and soft tactile relief of the line-block confirm these are genuine woodblock-printed reproductions, not lithograph or offset.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHonest attribution — a reproduction (fukkokuban), not an original Edo print\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese six prints are \u003cstrong\u003evintage Japanese reproduction woodblock prints (fukkokuban 復刻版)\u003c\/strong\u003e — \u003cstrong\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e original Edo-period Utamaro impressions. Original Kansei-era Utamaro prints are museum-tier objects priced in the thousands to tens of thousands of dollars per impression; this is a high-quality multi-block woodblock reproduction printed by a Japanese woodblock publisher in the late Showa era for the international art market. \u003cem\u003eFukkokuban\u003c\/em\u003e is itself a respected Japanese craft — these sheets are cut and printed by skilled woodblock artisans using traditional kentō registration and natural pigment on washi. The reproduction publisher is not identified on the folio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Curated by ZenKiln from a Japan-based sourcing studio. Original designs by Kitagawa Utamaro (Edo period, Kansei era); this object is a late-Showa fukkokuban reproduction portfolio.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe six plates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach plate carries a printed caption sheet describing the original in six languages (Japanese, English, French, German, Russian, Spanish):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「西国の芸者」 — \"Geisha of the Western Provinces\" (ōkubi-e close-up; original c. Kansei 7 \/ 1795)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「逢身八契」 — \"Joyful Meeting\" \/ Chūbei and Umekawa, lovers from the Chikamatsu tragedy (original end-Kansei)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「山姥と金太郎図」 — \"Yamauba and Kintarō\" \/ the mountain woman and her son (Utamaro's late period)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「婦人相学拾躰 — かみすき」 — \"Woman Combing,\" from the Ten Studies of Womanly Physiognomy series (original c. Kansei 3 \/ 1791)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「歌撰恋の部 物思恋図」 — \"Love-thinking,\" from the Anthology of Poems: Love section (original c. Kansei 4 \/ 1792)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e「高名美人六家撰」 — \"One of the Six Selected Famous Beautiful Geisha\" (original mid-Kansei)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Utamaro\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKitagawa Utamaro (1753–1806) is the most internationally recognized master of \u003cem\u003ebijin-ga\u003c\/em\u003e ukiyo-e. His Kansei-era work — the period these six plates reproduce — established the classical vocabulary of Japanese feminine portraiture, and his \u003cem\u003eōkubi-e\u003c\/em\u003e (大首絵 \/ close-up portraits) revolutionized the genre in the 1790s. After his death his prints became a foundational influence on the European Japonisme movement, shaping Manet, Degas, Toulouse-Lautrec, and the early Van Gogh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDating this portfolio\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe six-language caption sheet — including Russian alongside the major Western European languages — places the production firmly in the postwar Cold War cultural-exchange export window, narrowing the estimate to roughly the 1960s–1980s (late Showa). The folio's 「浮世絵」 title slip on a seigaiha (青海波 \/ wave) gold-pattern washi is the standard presentation format used by Japanese fukkokuban publishers of that period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent. The red washi folio's deckled edges are intact; the prints are clean with full colour saturation, no foxing or significant toning, and no creases, tears, or losses to any plate. Unrestored. Additional close-up photos of any plate or the folio are available on request.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDisplay \u0026amp; use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach print frames beautifully as a standalone object — the ōban sheets fit standard A3 \/ 30 × 40 cm frames with a single passe-partout mat. The six can hang as a grid, a horizontal run over a sofa, or a vertical sequence up a staircase. For collectors, the portfolio is just as valuable kept intact and stored flat — the original washi folio is part of the historical object and protects the prints from light and handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCare\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHandle with clean dry hands or cotton gloves. Store the portfolio flat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If framing for long-term display, use UV-protective glass. Washi is archival material and stable for generations when stored properly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIncluded\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × original red washi deckled-edge folio with 「浮世絵」 seigaiha title slip\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 × multilingual caption booklet (Japanese, English, French, German, Russian, Spanish)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6 × ōban-size bijin-ga woodblock reproduction prints after Utamaro\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-packed flat between rigid backers in a double-walled carton from Japan; insured in transit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout ZenKiln\u003c\/strong\u003e — A Japan-based curator connecting international collectors with Japan's artisan ceramic tradition. We work closely with the kilns, workshops, and makers featured in our shop — each one disclosed in our About section — and hand-pack every piece in Japan for safe delivery worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e📦 Ships from Japan, hand-packed for safe delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ZenKiln","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47725613449446,"sku":"ZK-PRINT-UTAMARO-001","price":688.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/files\/6a0f48436f03bf48e8c7f28f9f150b4c_f74e7c1b-facf-4939-8158-cfdb2f158850.png?v=1780211091"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0779\/5392\/5350\/collections\/antiques-300-plus-collector-pieces-1920x600.png?v=1778540350","url":"https:\/\/zen-kiln.com\/en-cz\/collections\/antique-japanese-collector.oembed","provider":"ZenKiln","version":"1.0","type":"link"}