Tea bowl with cranes late 18th - early 19th century

This is a tea bowl with cranes, made by Raku Ryōnyū in Japan in the late 18th or early 19th century. The red ceramic surface serves as a canvas for delicate depictions of cranes, symbols deeply embedded in the cultural psyche of Japan. Cranes embody longevity, fidelity, and good fortune, their image carefully chosen to stir feelings of peace and well-being. Consider the crane motif; from ancient Chinese mythology, where it carries immortals, to its presence on Japanese screens and kimonos, the crane transcends mere avian representation. It embodies a silent language passed through generations, a visual echo resonating with hopes for a long and prosperous life. This visual echo can be traced even to modern times, where the act of folding paper cranes as a wish for recovery has become an international symbol of hope, revealing the unbroken continuity of human emotions and aspirations. The enduring presence of the crane motif speaks to our collective yearning for transcendence. Its delicate form and powerful symbolism engage viewers on a profound level, creating a lasting impact on the subconscious, echoing through centuries of cultural and artistic expression.