The term "Goraidaifu" originates from the inscription "Goraidaifu Goshōzui zo" found on late Ming Dynasty Chinese blue and white porcelain (Shonzui). Shonzui porcelain is characterized by its pure white clay, refined shapes, bright glaze, and exquisitely beautiful blue and white coloring. The designs are varied and have been highly praised since ancient times. The painted patterns are characterized by a strong Japanese aesthetic. The rims and bases of the vessels are often decorated with shippo (seven treasures), ishidatami (stone pavement), and geometric patterns. The body of the vessel typically features designs of flowers and birds, landscapes, figures, and poems. The mark reads "Goraidaifu Goshōzui zo." People in Japan are not particularly puzzled by this mark. It is speculated that these pieces were made in the Jingdezhen kilns during the late Ming Dynasty (Chongzhen era) for export to Japan. Their production was as refined as that of the official kilns. Unfortunately, because these items were all exported to Japan, none remain in China. In recent years, Jingdezhen has begun mass-producing imitations of Shonzui ware. Most of these modern imitations are also exported, but a small portion is circulated in the domestic market, where they are highly popular. The development of the Chinese porcelain industry during the Ming Dynasty influenced many overseas ceramic artisans. During the early Zhengde era of the Ming Dynasty, when the Japanese envoys Ryōan and Keigo visited China, they brought with them Goraidaifu, a person from Ise Matsusaka. Goraidaifu studied ceramics in Jingdezhen for five years. His Chinese name was "Goshōzui." He primarily focused on the production of blue and white porcelain and created very unique blue and white painted patterns. In the eighth year of the Zhengde era, he returned to Japan and quickly gained fame, becoming known as the "Ceramic Saint" in Japan. This explanation is the most frequently appearing one in Chinese ceramic literature. It broadly defines "Shonzui ware" and interprets the "Goraidaifu Goshōzui zo" mark. For Chinese ceramic enthusiasts who are bewildered by "Shonzui ware," it provides a basic interpretation of its characteristics while also exaggerating the legendary aspects. As far as I know, the Japanese ceramic industry also has not confirmed the existence of Goraidaifu. However, the story of modern Jingdezhen mass-producing and exporting Shonzui ware imitations is undoubtedly true. In reality, mass production of Shonzui ware imitations occurred in the Imari kilns during the mid-to-late Edo period, even before Jingdezhen. Most of the old "Shonzui ware" circulating in the market is from that period. Genuine "Shonzui ware" from the old days is likely only found in museums. Approximate size: 68 x 68 x 51 mm Item stored in the warehouse Body only Collection Interior Antique Rare Thank you for viewing.