Porcelain tokkuri, underglaze blue. Partially lacquered. Japan, 17th

The bottle is made of Arita hard-paste porcelain decorated in underglaze cobalt blue with a landscape and flowers. The "Three Friends," auspicious symbols, are represented: plum trees and bamboo are painted on two sides, while pine trees dominate the lakeside landscapes on the other two. Some parts are lacquered. Japanese lacquered porcelains from this period are very rare; moreover, we know of no other example of a lacquered tokkuri. Usually, the lacquer on these porcelains is very degraded, sometimes disappearing completely. The lacquer on this tokkuri is exceptionally well preserved; only the rim is damaged, and there is no restoration. Japan, Arita kiln, late 17th century. The porcelain is in good condition. Height: 215 mm.