Kutani Ware Porcelain Bowls with Tomobako, Meiji Period

Story

Crafted during Japan's Meiji era, these bowls were made for a global market hungry for the exoticism of the East. The detailed scenes of elegant women reflect a nostalgic celebration of traditional Japanese culture amidst rapid modernization. The original wooden box has kept this delicate trio safe for over a century.

Maker / Origin

Kutani ware is famous for its bold, multi-colored overglaze painting tradition originating in Ishikawa Prefecture. During the Meiji era, studios like those in Kanazawa and Terai refined their techniques, combining traditional iron-red and gold pigments (known as Kutani Kinran-de) to create highly detailed, luxurious wares for international exhibition and export.

Condition & Value

The bowls appear to be in excellent antique condition with no visible cracks or major chips. There is minor, expected wear to the gold gilding along the rims and interior surfaces. The wooden box shows typical aging and light warping consistent with its age.