Exquisite Nabeshima bowl, presenting mill wheel motif with vermillion blossoms and pristine white porcelain interior space. The Nabeshima kilns were the earliest makers of porcelain in Japan and the clan's artisans have continued their excellence for nearly 400 years. Nabeshima ware was made solely for presentation to Japan's nobility, and not for domestic or export commerce. The slightest defect condemned a piece to sherds, which were then buried. This piece retains the tradition of excellence. A tiny mark, the shape of a cedar (cryptomeria) needle appears on the bottom near the edge of the foot ring. 8-3/8" diameter.2-1/2" high. Late Edo or early Meiji.
