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

The flat bottle features a slightly flattened body with a neck that is affixed on 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 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 not intended for pouring sake or similar liquids; rather, it was crafted as a water dropper for calligraphy.

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