Antique (C. 1880) Japanese Ceramic Hand Painted Imari Bowl Crane & Tortoise

This is an antique mid Meiji Era (c.1880) Japanese ceramic dish/kashizara appetizer bowl with a hand painted design of the three elements of happiness: pine, bamboo and plum blossom. It also has in gold a crane and tortoise, the elements of eternal life.

The "fish eye" unglazed area on the bottom was a unique kiln footing design found on late Edo to early Meiji era pottery (see pictures 4 & 5).

This type of bowl, Kashizara were used as a bowlto hold snacks (especially cakes), or small appetizers often used in chado (tea ceremony). It measures 5" in diameter by 1 1/2" tall (12.7 x 3.5 cm). Having been in storage for over a century, it remains in fine condition. A great size for serving something very special.

It came in an original set of 5 similar dishes. The remaining 2 dishes will be seen in upcoming sailerking listings or can me made available upon request.