Kutani bowl; Japan, 19th century

Kutani bowl; Japan, XIX century. Glazed porcelain. With mark on the base. Measurements: 8 x 24,5 cm Flower-shaped bowl, molded in relief, with a bat flying among clouds adorning the seat. The Kutani is a style of Japanese porcelain originated in the XVII century, although mainly developed in the XVIII century, at first used only for rich pieces, destined to noble landowners and not for export, something that will change in the following century. In this style a grayish paste is used, which is porcelain but can be confused with stoneware, covered with a matte glaze, thick and milky. Regarding the style of decoration, there are different variants, although generally thick glazes are used and the ornamentation tends to be variegated, to cover almost the entire surface. As is usual in Japanese ceramics, floral motifs predominate, combined with geometric motifs and representations of birds and insects.