Vintage ceramic bowl with “Japan” stamped on the bottom

Item Overview:
This is a mid-20th century Japanese ceramic bowl, featuring a hand-painted, folk-art-style floral motif in warm earth tones. The bottom is stamped simply with “JAPAN,” indicating it was made for export—likely between the 1940s and early 1960s, when this mark was commonly used post-WWII for goods shipped to the West.

Visual and Physical Characteristics:

• Material: Glazed ceramic
• Design: Stylized, hand-painted flowers in orange, black, and white with slight texture/ribbing on the outer surface. A reddish-brown glazed rim adds contrast.
• Markings: “JAPAN” impressed into the base, typical of mass-market export pottery from that era.
• Size: Approximately 6 inches in diameter and 4 inches in height
• Condition: Fair – some signs of wear consistent with age and use (minor glaze irregularities or marks)

Historical Context:
Post-WWII Japan saw a large-scale production of export ceramics, especially for the U.S. and European markets. These included dinnerware, decorative bowls, and vases often characterized by bright hand-painted patterns and minimal markings. The design here evokes a mid-century modern aesthetic with a slight nod toward Scandinavian design, which was popular globally during the 1950s–60s.

Estimated Value (as of 2025):

• Retail/Collector Value: $20–$35 USD
• Thrift or Estate Sale Value: $10–$20 USD
• Auction Value (if paired with similar items): $25–$50 USD (for a set or if grouped with similar “Japan” export ceramics)

Market Notes:

• Bowls marked "JAPAN" have been increasing modestly in value as collectors seek out vintage mid-century tableware.
• This piece may appeal to collectors of vintage kitchenware, Japanese export ceramics, or those with an interest in mid-century design.

Recommendation:
A professional ceramic or Asian art appraiser is not necessary for a single piece like this unless part of a larger set or collection. However, if you acquire more “JAPAN”-marked wares or find similar items with artist signatures or paper labels, a specialist in Japanese export ceramics could provide deeper historical and valuation insight.