SMALL FLAT BOTTLE, Sue Ware, Nara Period (710–794 CE)

The flat bottle features a slightly flattened body with a neck that is affixed to one side, making it well-suited for pouring liquids. This form originated in the early seventh century and continued to be produced through the Nara and Heian periods. Early examples exhibit a more rounded body, but by the Nara period, as seen in this piece, distinct ridges began to appear at the shoulder, and the body became increasingly flat.

This particular piece is small enough to fit comfortably in one hand and was crafted not for pouring sake, but as a water dropper for calligraphy.

Its elegant form evokes the beauty of flowers. After filling it with water for about an hour, there were no signs of leakage.