Bowl and Cover 1840 - 1860

This is a covered bowl, made by Nanki Otokoyama. While the exact date of production is unknown, we can appreciate its craftsmanship within the historical context of Japanese ceramic art. Bowls like this one were not simply functional objects, they embodied social and cultural meanings. The motifs, like the decoration of the karashishi, or Chinese lion, often seen as guardians, or symbols of power and protection, reflect the values and status that were traditionally associated with its owner. The smooth, tactile quality of the lacquer invites a sensory experience, connecting us to past rituals of dining and display. Consider how the bowl reflects the cultural emphasis on refinement and aesthetic contemplation. It invites us to reflect on our relationship with objects and the values we assign to them.