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Japanese Meiji Signed Stoneware Brush Pot with Humorous Scenes stock #JWHHumorBP
Japanese stoneware brush pot, late Meiji period (circa 1890–1915), decorated with two humorous domestic scenes in underglaze and overglaze enamels against a warm iron-brown ground. One side depicts a woman grooming a seated man as he winces in exaggerated discomfort; the opposing scene shows another woman cleaning a man’s ear (mimikaki), rendered with lively expression and gentle caricature. A small cat appears turning away from one vignette, adding a subtle comic aside typical of Meiji-period visual humor.
The cylindrical form is wheel-thrown, with a cream-glazed interior and an expressive raised slip-decorated band at the rim, characteristic of Seto–Mino regional stoneware experimentation during the late 19th century. Signed on the base Ushijima (牛島), indicating work by a small studio potter or decorator rather than factory production. In very good antique condition. One stable hairline approximately 1.25 inches long visible at the interior rim only; structurally sound with no repairs. Measures 4" diameter x 9.75 inches high. JUNE’S THOUGHTS I’m especially fond of brush pots like this because they reveal the lighter side of Meiji-period daily life. The humor is affectionate rather than crude, and the scenes feel observed rather than staged — the sort of quiet comedy meant to be discovered over time at a writing table. The turned-away cat is a wonderful touch, and the raised slipwork at the rim gives the piece a physical presence that feels very satisfying in the hand. It’s the kind of object that rewards close looking and feels entirely at home among scholar’s objects or Asian desk pieces. |
