A large late Meiji Japanese blue-and-white porcelain dragon-head ship-form vessel, made at the Mikawachi kilns in the former Hirado domain, c.1890–1910. It is finely modelled in white porcelain and hand-painted in underglaze cobalt blue. Its complex sculptural modelling is characteristic of Hirado porcelain, a ware particularly noted for finely worked forms and controlled blue-and-white decoration.

The vessel is modelled in the traditional form of a ceremonial Takarabune treasure ship, or dragon boat, incorporating classical East Asian auspicious symbols. In Japanese folklore, the Takarabune is the mythical vessel that carries the Seven Lucky Gods and their sacred treasures through the heavens during the first days of the New Year, bringing prosperity, protection and good fortune.

The bow terminates in a fully sculpted, scaled dragon head with a hollow open mouth and a separately moulded white porcelain tongue. The triangular bow deck is painted in cobalt blue with a large bat motif and a Buddhist endless knot. The deep oval well at the centre of the vessel is painted with takaramono, an arrangement of auspicious treasure objects including a magic money mallet, a scroll, a treasure bag and other symbolic forms.

The triangular stern deck is painted with a phoenix flying amid stylised clouds, above a spiral diaper band along the lower transom. The hull is painted with crested waves and flying birds. The cobalt-blue decoration is set against the white porcelain ground.

The underside is unmarked, with a broad unglazed oval footrim surrounding a glazed central area.

The Mikawachi kilns were developed under the Matsura clan, daimyō rulers of the Hirado domain. In 1598 Matsura Shigenobu brought Korean potters to Hirado; the domain established Mikawachi as an official kiln in 1637, and white porcelain production followed around 1640. The exceptional quality and craftsmanship developed under this sustained patronage brought Hirado porcelain international recognition.

Dimensions

Weight: 1,716 g; Height: 17 cm; Length: 39 cm; Width: 14 cm

Condition

Overall in excellent antique condition. The upper part of the dragon's head has been professionally restored long ago. The separately moulded tongue within the open mouth is intact.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. Shipping costs include handling, packaging and postage.