This teapot is an example of early 20th century Kutani ware, a style of Japanese ceramics that originated at the Kutani kilns (southern Ishikawa Prefecture). The Ko Kutani (‘Old Kutani’) vessels made during the 16th and 17th centuries varied greatly in decoration and colour, and were prized objects in the West. Although this style of decoration typically features a palette of rich yellow, black, aubergine and green, the Kutani style was revived many times, not only at the Kutani kilns but also in Arita (North-West Japan). This teapot is embellished with the traditional Kutani palette and decoration, such as the crane and lotus blossoms, which have been adapted to suit contemporary taste.
