Meiji Japanese Brown-Glazed Brush Pot With Humorous Figural Scenes

Details

Description

A lively and character-rich Meiji Japanese brush pot (circa 1890–1915) decorated with two humorous domestic scenes. On one panel, a … Read more A lively and character-rich Meiji Japanese brush pot (circa 1890–1915) decorated with two humorous domestic scenes. On one panel, a woman leans in to groom a seated man as he winces in exaggerated discomfort; on the opposite side, another woman plucks at a man’s ear with comic intensity. A small cat turns away from one of the couples, adding a witty visual aside typical of Meiji-era humor.
The cylindrical stoneware form is finished in a warm iron-brown glaze with an expressive raised slip-decorated band at the rim—an appealing contrast to the cream-glazed interior. These playful warai-e (comic picture) motifs were especially popular among literati and artisans during the late 19th century, often appearing on writing-desk objects like this.
Signed “Ushijima” (牛島) on the base, identifying the work of a small studio potter or decorator active during the period. The hand-applied signature is a desirable detail, indicating limited production rather than factory output.
A distinctive accent for your writing table, shelf, or brush collection.

COLLECTOR'S NOTE
Comic ear-cleaning (mimikaki) and grooming scenes were a familiar motif in Meiji popular culture, often depicted with affectionate exaggeration. These small narrative moments, drawn from illustrated humor books and giga sketch traditions, made their way onto ceramics intended for scholars and readers—objects meant to entertain as much as serve a function.
The signature Ushijima (牛島) reflects a late-Meiji practice in which individual decorators or small workshop potters signed pieces independently, rather than using formal kiln marks. Such signatures appear on limited-production wares and are valued for the glimpse they offer into the personal craftsmanship behind each object. The raised rim decoration also speaks to Seto–Mino ceramic experimentation of the era, where potters explored textured slipwork to enhance surface drama.

00494JWHcpk32 See less