Golden Dove - Kutani ware, Japan

Name: Golden Dove
 
Type: Porcelain Sake Bottle
 
Year: Circa 1952–1960
 
Set: No
 
Mark: Kutani ware, Japan - Hand-painted red seal with kanji – typical of post-WWII Kutani marks (昭和 era)
 
History: This striking hexagonal Japanese porcelain sake bottle features traditional Kutani-yaki (九谷焼) craftsmanship, specifically a mid-20th century variant known for matte black finishes with hand-applied gold decoration. The bottle’s imagery includes classic motifs such as pagodas, mountainous landscapes, and pine trees, all delicately executed in gilded brushwork. A unique element is the golden dove finial on the stopper, which adds both character and rarity.
 
 
The makers mark on the base is a red rectangular seal with two stylized kanji. The upper kanji “九” (Ku) and the lower “谷” (Tani) clearly reference “Kutani”. This form of mark became common during Japan’s postwar export boom from the early 1950s to the late 1960s. Many of these Kutani export wares were produced in Ishikawa Prefecture and aimed at Western markets, prized for their aesthetic blend of Japanese minimalism and luxury gold embellishment.
 
 
Condition appears excellent with no visible cracks or restoration. The matte glaze is intact, and the gold detailing is well-preserved.
 
Flaws: None