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Hirado Porcelain Sake Pitcher in Hotei Form browse these categories for related items... All Items: Antiques:Regional Art:Asian:Japanese:Porcelain: Pre 1900: item # 119140 Please refer to our stock # 2B-601 when inquiring.
B & C Antiques P. O. Box 291 Derby, CT 06418 203-929-7312 Guest Book $895 |
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| Exquisitely modeled Japanese Hirado porcelain sake pitcher or ewer in the form of the legendary figure of Hotei carrying his sack. Second half of 19th century. In Hotei’s face, arms and abdomen one can see the fine-grained milky white porcelain body covered in a pure lustrous white glaze. His robes are glazed in cobalt blue and his sack in brown iron oxide. The curving neck of his sack forms the handle of the pot, and its upturned end forms the spout. Hotei, one of the Seven Gods of Good Luck, is distinguished by his huge protuberant abdomen, which is thought to indicate a largeness of soul and inward wealth of resources, characteristic of a man who has attained the wisdom of Buddhism. He is usually represented as a fat, pot-bellied, half-naked figure, carrying a large sack. He is frequently called the Laughing Buddha. He is laughing since he has overcome all the anxieties and cares that trouble most people, and is carefree and happy. Hirado wares are considered to be among the finest porcelains ever made in Japan, and they are highly prized among today’s collectors. Hirado was produced at Mikawachi near Arita, and for much of its history was made under the patronage of the lords of Hirado. The fine clay discovered there enabled potters to create wonderfully modeled porcelain pieces. Aristocratic patronage ended in the 1830’s with the commercialization of the kilns; however, the quality of Hirado wares remained very high. Several reference books on Japanese porcelains illustrate examples of this piece. Condition is excellent. Dimensions: 7” long, 4” wide, 5 ˝” high. | ||||||||||||||
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