Acquired from an antique collector. Kutani ware, masterpiece by Kutani Shoza, sake cup (choko), colored kinrande, featuring a depiction of the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove, figures of Tang dynasty people, and a bird-and-flower motif. The design features figures such as the "Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove," inspired by Chinese mythology and hermits, along with traditional geometric patterns and bird-and-flower motifs. It is characterized by its vibrant, eclectic colors and intricate gold embellishments. The design on the inner bottom of the cup becomes even more striking when sake or tea is poured in. ・Size: Diameter approx. 6.1cm / Height approx. 3cm ・Condition: There are minor scratches typical of items from this period, but no cracks or chips (nyu or hotsu) are visible, indicating that it has been carefully preserved and is in good condition. It has a significant presence not only as a sake vessel (guinomi or sakazuki) but also as a collector's item. As a one-of-a-kind antique, please enjoy the refined appearance of Eiraku ware in your own hands. Kutani Shoza (1816-1883) A master of Kutani ware who was active from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji era. He is known as the restorer of Kutani ware and established the luxurious and delicate technique of colored kinrande. Type...Porcelain Type...Sake vessel Type...Choko (small sake cup) Pottery...Kutani ware 250219-28