SMALL JAR, Ko-Sometsuke, with fish design, With wooden box

A small Ko-sometsuke jar made in the Ming dynasty.

A fish motif is painted in underglaze blue on the small, plump, rounded body. The brushwork is broad and free, and the fish forms are somewhat abstract. Characteristic of Ming-period underglaze blue, it displays vigorous lines and an effective use of negative space; though modest in size, it is a piece of considerable charm.

A grass-like motif encircles the shoulder, while the body is adorned with fish and compartmental motifs. Blue has bled into the white porcelain body, and the glaze shows fine crazing and age-related stains. Layers of varying blue tones, the glaze’s yellowing, and spots of iron rust appearing here and there combine to produce the soft expression characteristic of antique pottery.

A small jar that fits in the palm of the hand, yet its full-bodied form gives it a quiet presence when placed in a tea room or on a small shelf. It can serve as a tiny vase for wildflowers, or be appreciated as a small lidded container.

A small chip to the rim; scuffs, glaze loss, iron staining, and discoloration are evident on the body and around the foot. The piece retains the character of age and is accompanied by a wooden box.