1930s Imari Gilt Ceramic Barrel Stool With Japanese Oiran Courtesans

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A rare Chinese-made for the Japanese market, ceramic barrel-form stool with raised Imari gilt figures of Oiran-Japanese Distigished Courtesans, Castle … Read more A rare Chinese-made for the Japanese market, ceramic barrel-form stool with raised Imari gilt figures of Oiran-Japanese Distigished Courtesans, Castle and auspicious Japanese kikkoumon pattern (tortoise shell). Those courtesans are not Chinese women, they are Japanese and you can tell by their different hair-style and kimono.
The term Oiran refers to the highest ranking courtesans in Japanese history, each distinguished by their skills, training and social standing. They were proficient in singing, classical dance, and upper class formalized conversations.
The Kikko (kikkoumon) pattern is inspired by the hexagonal shape of tortoise shells, an auspicious animal, symbolizing longevity. In the past, the samurai's armor could be composed of many hexagonal facets sewn together, similar to this geometric pattern.
Dimensions: 12 inches total diameter; 19 inches high.
Acquired at a private auction in Fukuoka-Kyushu, Japan.
Interested buyers are highly encouraged to ask all necessary questions before purchase. Thank you. See less