Early Edo Period Japanese 12.75 Inch Shallow Bowl With Carp and Waves

Details

Description

This is a bold depiction of a carp leaping from the waves, a centuries-old Japanese symbol of perseverance and grit. … Read more This is a bold depiction of a carp leaping from the waves, a centuries-old Japanese symbol of perseverance and grit. Because carp swim against strong currents, they symbolize the willpower to overcome life's obstacles, hardships, and challenges.

Typical of the early pieces, it has a softer, slightly greyish-blue undertone and distinct "spur marks" on the underside from the kiln. It is an old handmade, hand-drawn, hand-painted and hand-glazed piece.

The presence of spur marks and no maker's markings strongly point to an authentic early-to-mid Edo period production (likely late 17th to 18th century). In early Arita (Ko-Imari) production, clay supports called spurs left tiny unglazed marks on the base to prevent warping in the kiln. Genuine pieces from this era rarely had signatures.

When tapped, it has a clear, resonant bell tone. It does have an old hairline crack (see photos and condition notes), and it is priced accordingly. See less