Late Meiji Fukagawa Porcelain Fish Bowl with Koi Carp, Arita, C.1894

An outstanding Japanese porcelain fish bowl (jardinière), produced by the celebrated Fukagawa Seiji kiln in Arita during the late Meiji period, circa 1894. Combining refined craftsmanship with sophisticated decoration, it represents one of the finest traditions of Japanese export porcelain. The exterior is painted in the elegant Growing Bamboo pattern using underglaze cobalt blue, iron-red enamels and hand-applied gilding. Its distinctive atmospheric effect was achieved using the traditional fuki-ezumi technique, in which atomised cobalt was sprayed in successive translucent layers before the bamboo was meticulously painted by hand, creating exceptional depth and a remarkably painterly finish.

The interior is centred by a beautifully executed koi carp swimming through cobalt-blue washes that convincingly evoke flowing water. When filled, the bowl creates the illusion of a living fish beneath the surface. The underside bears the authentic Fukagawa Mount Fuji and Stream factory mark, while the base retains characteristic iron firing spots associated with fine Meiji-period Arita porcelain.

The original mid-20th-century Henry Lawrence paper label from Torquay accompanies the bowl, providing valuable British provenance and confirming its long-established presence in Europe. Large Fukagawa fish bowls incorporating the rare interior koi carp decoration and the refined fuki-ezumi technique are among the most sought-after examples of Meiji-period Japanese porcelain.

Dimensions:

• Height: 15 cm

• Diameter: 24.5 cm

• Weight: 1930 g

Condition:

Minor wear to the gilding around the upper rim. A few very light enamel surface scratches are present on the upper section, visible only upon close inspection, they do not penetrate the body and are not visible under UV. Otherwise in excellent antique condition with no restoration or repairs detected under ultraviolet examination.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.