mizusashi BM-2014-3064.33

Period:Unknown Production date:1844
Materials:porcelain
Technique:painted, glazed,
Subjects:landscape
Dimensions:Diameter: 14 centimetres Height: 16 centimetres

Description:
Water-jar (mizusashi) with Chinese-style landscape. Made of porcelain decorated in underglaze cobalt blue. Inscribed and dated.
IMG


Comments:An imaginary Chinese-style landscape wraps around this water jar, which was made for use in tea gatherings. Originally with a lid, it was used to bring fresh water for use in making whipped tea (chanoyu) in front of invited guests. The landscape scene with its steep mountains and a remote pavilion would have brought classical Chinese references into the tea setting. There is an inscription on the upper part of the vessel, dating the work to the 15th year of the Tempo era (1844) and records that it was painted by an artist named Doji. It was most likely fired in a Kyoto area kiln. The base is slightly warped with kiln grit attached. (N. C. Rousmaniere, 2015)