SAKE FLASK, Ko-Imari, with underglaze blue dragonfly and flower design, Edo Period（1603–1867CE）

This piece is a sake flask, or "tokkuri," crafted during the Edo Period, characterized as Ko-Imari. The form features a broad base that flares outward, with a slender, elongated neck, known as a "funatokuri," designed to remain stable even on the rolling decks of ships. Prioritizing stability on a swaying deck, this vessel was conceived as a practical container for the maritime trade routes, particularly those originating from Imari Port, and was used for serving and storing sake during voyages.

On two sides of the body, a design of flowers and dragonflies is rendered in varying shades of indigo. The dragonfly, known for its non-retreating nature, is referred to as a "winning insect" and became a symbol of martial prowess among the samurai. In rural areas, it was also seen as a beneficial insect that consumes pests, thus embodying the promise of abundance. The motifs of this piece, combined with floral patterns, evoke a sense of seasonal change and a wish for fruitful harvests, reflecting a folk belief in auspicious symbols.

The use of a single indigo hue for underglaze decoration became a dominant technique in Imari ware from the late 17th to the 18th century. The variations in tone and the bleeding effects created by the iron-rich "gosu" pigment, influenced by the speed of the brush, contributed to a unique charm within mass production. In everyday vessels like this, rhythm and spacing were prioritized over pictorial techniques, and this piece is adorned with lively brushstrokes. The slightly grayish white porcelain glaze exhibits fine crackling, which has aged beautifully, resulting in a warm, inviting patina.