Antique Japanese Ninsei-Style Tea Bowl with Fans, c.1900

A finely decorated antique Japanese tea bowl in the Ninsei style, likely dating to the late Meiji period, circa 1900.

The ceramic chawan is covered with a softly crackled glaze and richly decorated by hand with overlapping folding fans, floral motifs and delicate gilt highlights. The varied fan designs create an elegant composition around the exterior, while the interior is intentionally understated to emphasise the warm tone and subtle texture of the glaze.

The underside has an unglazed foot and bears an impressed Ninsei-style 仁清 seal. The mark reflects the decorative tradition and should not be interpreted as a direct attribution to the original 17th-century master Nonomura Ninsei.

Details

Item: Antique Japanese tea bowl / chawan

Origin: Japan, likely Kyoto

Date / Period: Late Meiji period, likely c.1900

Maker: Unidentified Japanese maker

Style: Ninsei-style Kyoto ware

Material: Ceramic with overglaze enamel and gilt decoration over a softly crackled glaze

Decoration: Hand-painted overlapping folding fans and floral motifs with gilt highlights

Mark: Impressed Ninsei-style 仁清 seal to base

Height: 6.9 cm

Diameter: 12.1 cm

Condition

Very good antique condition with light age-related wear consistent with age. The glaze displays fine crackling characteristic of the decorative finish. A darker line is visible to the interior, which appears to be within the glaze rather than a hairline crack. Please review the photographs carefully for the full condition.

Please Note

The wooden display stand shown in the photographs is for presentation purposes only and is not included with the tea bowl.

Historical and Collector Context

Nonomura Ninsei was one of the most influential ceramic artists associated with the development of Kyoto ware during the 17th century. His refined tea wares and sophisticated use of coloured overglaze enamels inspired later generations of Japanese potters.

This bowl is best described as Ninsei-style rather than attributed directly to Nonomura Ninsei. Its layered fan design, coloured enamels, gilt detailing and impressed seal make it an appealing addition to a collection of Japanese ceramics, Kyoto ware or tea ceremony objects.

All items are vintage or antique and may show light signs of age. Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Feel free to message with any questions prior to purchase.