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It was purchased at Sotheby's in the late 70's early 80's, but I cannot figure out which auction. It measures approx. 8.5" across. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

I believe it is Japanese Kyoto ware, late Edo period, circa 1800. Similar pieces have been attributed to Okuda Eisen, the person primarily associated with development of the first porcelain in Kyoto. This was almost 200 years after porcelain was first made in Japan, at Arita in Hizen province. Eisen's porcelain (actually it varies from pocelaneous stoneware to true porcelain) is charcterized by an opaque white glaze decorated with overglaze enamels in a red-green color scheme. The decoration and colors resemble Chinese kirade ware and, even more so, polychrome Swatow ware. Someone else should be able to read the characters.

On second thought your bowl could actually be Swatow ware, 17th century. See picture of swatow ware bowl similar to yours. The only problem I have with your bowl being Swatow ware is the color and cutting/shape of the footring. That said, I am more familar with swatow large dishes which have a differently formed footring.

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