An incomplete Arita tiered hexagonal box and cover, Japanese, early 18th Century.

The cover of this little box is finely painted in underglaze blue, with a delightful scene of a hare bounding through ferns and grasses.

The sides are decorated with a continuous design of variegated diaper patterns, including overlapping arcs, known as seigaiha, signifying calm water, and with willows and a bridge, 7cm wide.

The bridge across a willow-bordered river was one of the most beloved subjects of Edo period (c.1615-1868) art and was particularly popular on painted screens.

REFERENCE: CER0389

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