Teapot 1800

This Teapot was made by Aoki Mokubei, probably in the early 19th century, using stoneware with overglaze enamel. Look closely, and you'll notice this isn't a typical utilitarian object. The form is decidedly quirky, almost comical, with its stout body and exaggerated spout. It’s far from the sleek, mass-produced ceramics we might find today. The artist has applied the enamels in a deliberately uneven way. This isn't industrial perfection, but the mark of an individual sensibility. Mokubei was working within a long tradition of Japanese ceramics. But he was also pushing boundaries, using his skilled hand to create a vessel that transcends mere functionality. This teapot bridges the gap between fine art and craft, inviting us to consider the artistry inherent in everyday objects. It reminds us that even the simplest of things can be elevated through careful making and thoughtful design.