An early Imari blue-and-white porcelain bottle from the first half of the 17th century, dating from the formative period of porcelain production in Japan.<\/p>\n
Porcelain production began in Hizen in the early 17th century through techniques introduced by Korean potters. Early Imari was produced only during the first few decades of this new industry, before the highly refined and standardized forms of later Arita porcelain had fully developed.<\/p>\n
These early wares occupy a distinctive position between the traditions of Karatsu stoneware and the emergence of Japanese porcelain. Although made from porcelain stone, many retain qualities associated with Karatsu: relatively robust forms, subtle irregularities in the glaze and surface, and a direct sense of the potter\u2019s hand. Many were also glazed without a preliminary biscuit firing, contributing to the softer and less controlled appearance characteristic of the period.<\/p>\n
This small bottle is decorated in underglaze blue with a freely painted grass motif. Its loose, economical brushwork recalls the spontaneous decoration of Karatsu ware, while the white porcelain body points toward the new ceramic tradition that was beginning to develop in Arita.<\/p>\n
Its original function is uncertain. Given its small size, it may have been intended to hold oil or another liquid rather than sake. Today, its proportions also make it well suited for displaying a single wildflower.<\/p>\n
Condition & Kintsugi Repair<\/strong><\/p>\n Strictly speaking, this is not a conventional kintsugi repair but a form of yobitsugi<\/em>, in which separate ceramic fragments are joined to create a complete vessel. The body below the neck and the neck itself originated as separate excavated fragments. Both fragments are from the same period and the same type of vessel.<\/p>\n The two fragments were joined with natural urushi lacquer and carefully shaped so that the transition between them appears as natural as possible. The repaired area was then finished with 24-karat gold.<\/p>\n The front of the vessel remains in remarkably good condition, while the reverse shows pronounced surface weathering and adhering soil deposits consistent with excavation.<\/p>\n A firing crack is present on the underside. It does not extend through to the interior, and the vessel remains watertight when filled with water.<\/p>\n Although the bottle may originally have been used to hold oil or another liquid, there is no residual oil odor.<\/p>\n Dimensions<\/strong> Use & Care<\/strong><\/p>\n Primarily recommended for display. It may also be used as a small vase for a single flower.<\/p>\n When using it as a vase, avoid leaving water standing above the repaired area at the neck for extended periods. Empty the vessel after use and allow it to dry thoroughly.<\/p>\n Price<\/strong> Request for Information<\/a><\/p>\n
\nHeight: 10 cm
\nMaximum diameter: 6.3 cm
\nMouth diameter: 2.7 cm
\nFoot diameter: 4.3 cm
\nMeasurements are approximate.<\/em><\/p>\n
\n1,400 USD<\/p>\n