OPENWORK-CARVED SQUARE CUP STAND, Underglaze blue, Edo Period（1603–1867CE）

An underglaze-blue openwork-carved square cup stand from the Edo period.

A cup stand is a vessel for holding cups, used at banquets and on celebratory occasions. This example has a square body supported on four legs; each face is pierced with a lozenge-shaped opening, and the central area displays an openwork carved motif.

On the exterior, vertical, diagonal, and spiral motifs are painted in underglaze blue; the white porcelain’s openwork and the blue designs present distinct expressions on each face. Though modest in size, the object’s architectural composition and the finely rendered underglaze decoration are in harmonious balance.

The Tokyo National Museum also holds an example of this type of underglaze-blue openwork-carved square cup stand; among Edo-period underglaze-blue cup stands it is a relatively rare form. The square body combines openwork carving with underglaze-blue decoration in a highly inventive design, conveying the playfulness and technical skill characteristic of Edo-period vessels.

The openwork carving on all four sides creates a sense of depth when it catches the light, casting a soft shadow within. While well suited as a cup stand, it also serves as a base for a small incense burner or a modest flower vessel, and can be enjoyed in a tea gathering or as an element of a shelf display.

Owing to its age, there are small scuffs in places, kiln imperfections, slight bleeding of the underglaze blue, and glaze crazing. No repairs are evident, and the overall condition is good.