An export lacquer ewer, late 17th Century.

This multi-lobed ewer, in the form of a cherry blossom in cross section, with a naturalistic spout and handle (a common feature at the time), is decorated with bridges and pavilions within a continuous landscape, height 12.5cm, width 15.5cm, handle to spout.
The 1835 Burghley Inventory records: “Japan Closet, Japan in the Glass case opposite the door(s), sic, Black Japan & Gold A Teapot”.
The 1867 Burghley Inventory records: “Cabinets, No 88 Japan Closet, A black and gold japan teapot”.