Ko-Imari Style Covered Steamed Tea Bowl with Dutchmen Motif

Story

During Japan's period of isolation, the Dutch were the only Westerners allowed to trade, confined to the tiny artificial island of Dejima. Japanese artists became fascinated by these red-haired, top-hatted visitors, turning them into legendary, stylized folk figures on luxury porcelain.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned by a specific artist, this piece was produced by skilled artisans in the Arita region, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. These workshops specialized in reviving the classic Edo-period 'Ko-Imari' style for both domestic connoisseurs and global export markets during Japan's modernization.

Condition & Value

The covered tea bowl appears to be in excellent antique condition with no visible cracks, chips, or major hairline fractures. There is minor, expected wear to the gold leaf and overglaze enamel decoration, which is typical for its age and does not detract from its display value.