Early Meiji period Aka-e Ko-Kutani ware. * Diameter 12cm, Height 2.5cm The red painting and gold coloring, characteristic of Ko-Kutani, depict waterfowl and Omodaka (arrowhead plants) in a single, painterly composition. The intricacy is a craftsmanship unmatched by others. This fine detail is said to be drawn with a menso brush made from the hair of a certain type of mouse (○○ nezumi) that lived in the reeds along the shores of Lake Biwa. However, I hear that this mouse is nearly extinct, making it impossible to produce these special menso brushes. At the same time, I believe there are no artisans today who can achieve such delicate brushwork. I am truly in awe of the skills of the artisans of the past. I purchased several of these at an antique shop about 20 years ago, but I find them too precious to use, the more I look at them. I enjoy one as a decorative plate, and I am now offering the others that I had put away. I am looking forward to the purchase of these items, which represent the world-renowned skills of Japan, by someone who will cherish them and pass them on to future generations. There are no scratches or scuffs; it is a complete piece. The colors in the 4th and 5th photos are the closest to the actual color. ☆ A person who previously purchased the same item said that the actual piece is even more beautiful. The delicate feel cannot be fully expressed in the images. #Ko-Kutani #Antique