Antique Japanese Kayoi-Tokkuri multi-sided ceramic "lending bottle", dating from the late Meiji to early Shōwa era (circa 1890s–1930s).
These heavy stoneware jugs were used by local merchants to distribute bulk sake directly from wooden barrels to customers.
The front features striking, hand-painted iron-glazed calligraphy reading 'Kurosaki', referencing the merchant family or the historic Kurosaki post-town along the Nagasaki Kaidō highway in Fukuoka. The lower cursive script reads 'Sake', cementing its commercial utility.
Unlike many crudely thrown utilitarian pieces from this era that weigh over a kilogram, this elegant bottle weighs a remarkably light 650 grams unpacked. This thin-walled construction demonstrates a high level of technical mastery by the potter. The unglazed foot features a classic string-cut wheel mark (itokiri) and original adhered kiln sand beds from a traditional wood-fired climbing kiln (noborigama).
Specifications:
Height: 25.5 cm (approx. 10 inches)
Weight: 650 grams (unpacked)
Era: Late Meiji / Early Shōwa (c. 1890–1930)
Material: Stoneware Ceramic / Iron Glaze
Origin: Japan (Likely regional Mino or Shigaraki kilns)
Very good antique condition with no major chips, structural cracks, or post-production damage. Natural kiln imperfections, sand texture on the base, and minor glaze crawls are inherent to the historic wood-firing process and add to its authentic antique character.
Please view the pictures carefully and let us know if you have any questions.
(Item 0268)
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