Imari Ware, Soy Sauce Ewer, early 18th century

An imari ewer with underglaze blue, decorated with gilded flowers and two roundels bearing the letter 'Z' (soya).

Often commissioned by western merchants who had access to the Japanese trade circuit, similar pieces from the kilns of Arita contain western lettering, signifying the potential contents of the vessel. Continental motifs are also noticeable, with stylised karakusa [lit. Chinese grass] adorning the spout and handle. The ewer is secured with brass fittings, the lid having a delicate engraving of a flower.