Double Gourd-shaped Sake Bottle
Original Language Title瓢箪徳利
CultureJapanese
Datemid-late 19th century
MediumStoneware with white slip covered by a clear glaze; kiln unknown
DimensionsOverall: 11 1/2 × 6 1/2 inches (29.21 × 16.51 cm)
Credit LinePurchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust
Object number32-59/2
On View
Not on viewCollections
Exhibition HistoryJapanese Prints and
Pottery, American
Federation of Arts, October 1950-1951.
These bottles were used for serving sake. In the 19th century, local kilns manufactured large ceramic bottles for distributing sake, and also made smaller serving bottles. Here, the bottles were used by commoners. They are distinguished from finely made ceramics by their sturdy forms, simple embellishments and casual designs. Their rustic and simple elegance was highly prized by the advocates of the Mingei (folk art, or art of the people) movement, which believed the embodiment of art could be found in the functional objects that were made from natural materials.
With Yamanaka & Co., New York City, by March 16, 1932;
Purchased from Yamanaka & Co. by The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City, MO, 1932.
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late 18th century
32-58/3
