Vintage Japanese Kiyomizu-yaki Futamono Covered Bowl, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0253

Vintage Japanese Kiyomizu-yaki Futamono Covered Bowl, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0253

A hand-painted Kiyomizu-yaki futamono with courtly figural decoration and crackle glaze, presented in its original wooden storage box

A futamono is a traditional Japanese covered vessel -- a lidded serving bowl used in kaiseki and formal dining to keep delicate preparations warm at the table. This example is a fine piece of vintage Japanese ceramics from the Kiyomizu-yaki tradition, the celebrated kiln lineage centered in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. The rounded stoneware body is enveloped in a warm cream crackle glaze, its fine network of hairline crazing lending the surface the quiet texture characteristic of Kiyomizu-yaki at its most refined. The fitted lid rests within a notched rim -- a distinctive four-point scalloped edge visible on both the bowl and lid flange -- and is topped by a pierced ceramic knob finial with a quatrefoil cutout, a detail associated with covered vessels intended for serving at the table. The lid is hand-painted in polychrome overglaze enamels with a vivid courtly or theatrical scene: elaborately costumed figures in layered robes with red flowing hair -- consistent with Noh or Bugaku performance dress -- are depicted alongside a seated courtier in a green robe and a low lacquer stand bearing a decorative vase. The composition is open and assured, with each figure rendered in cobalt, iron red, green, and gold enamel against the pale ground. A small red seal mark appears on the underside of both the lid and the bowl base. The piece retains its original brushed-inscription wooden storage box, confirming the Kiyomizu-yaki attribution and adding significant provenance and display value for collectors of Japanese vintage ceramics.

In a modern home, this vintage Kiyomizu-yaki futamono makes a striking living room accent or dining table centerpiece -- displayed open with the lid resting alongside, it becomes a miniature stage for the painted figures within. It is equally at home on a bedroom dresser or vanity as a decorative jewelry holder, its cream crackle glaze and courtly imagery lending wabi-sabi warmth to any Japandi-style interior. The accompanying wooden box elevates its appeal as a unique gift for collectors, a thoughtful housewarming gift, or a standout piece for any lover of handcrafted Japanese ceramics. Whether used as a small condiment server for a tea table or simply admired as a collector's display object, this piece carries the quiet elegance of Kyoto craftsmanship into contemporary spaces.

• Origin: Kyoto, Japan -- Kiyomizu-yaki tradition
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Stoneware with cream crackle glaze; polychrome overglaze enamel decoration; red seal mark; original wooden storage box with brushed inscription
• Use: Futamono -- covered serving bowl for kaiseki or formal table dining
• Modern Use: Living room decorative accent or display object; jewelry or keepsake holder on a dresser or vanity; tea table condiment server
• Features: Fitted lid with notched four-point scalloped rim; pierced quatrefoil ceramic knob finial; hand-painted Noh or Bugaku figural scene in polychrome enamels; crackle-glazed bowl interior and exterior; red seal mark on lid and base; original signed wooden storage box
• Dimensions: 7"W x 7"D x 3 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully preserved piece of vintage Japanese ceramics, this Kiyomizu-yaki futamono brings the refined aesthetic of Kyoto court culture into any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.