Late Meiji to Taisho Period (Circa 1880–1920) | "In the Chinese Taste"

Up for sale is a beautiful and highly collectible antique Japanese underglaze blue and white (Sometsuke) scholar’s brush washer (also known as a water coupe or Bixian). Crafted during the late Meiji to early Taisho era, this piece is designed "in the Chinese taste" (Nankin-sometsuke) to appeal to refined calligraphers and literary collectors.

The interior features a tranquil, classic Shan Shui (mountain and water) landscape, showing a gnarled pine tree clinging to a rocky bank, a solitary scholar's pavilion nestled by the water, and a flock of birds flying in V-formation across a misty sky. The rim is framed by a delicate, geometric diaper/chevron border.

### Key Features & Collector Points:

Double Concentric Foot Ring: A wonderful structural feature characteristic of late Edo and Meiji-period Japanese porcelain. This double-ring construction was used by high-quality regional kilns (such as Arita/Imari) to prevent warping during firing.

Apocryphal Seal Mark: The base features an underglaze blue six-character apocryphal Qianlong seal mark (Da Qing Qianlong Nian Zhi), applied as a tribute to the classic imperial wares of the 18th century.

Classic Scholars' Utility: The inward-curving rim is designed to scrape excess water or ink off calligraphy brushes, making it a functional piece of art history.

### Item Specifications:

Origin: Japan (Arita / Imari)

Type: Scholar's Brush Washer / Water Coupe

Date of Manufacture: Late 19th to early 20th Century (circa 1880–1920)

Material: Underglaze blue and white porcelain

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