A rare Kotou ware vase with meticulous painting done on the surface with an image of herons and reeds on one side, and a late spring flower bouquet still life. The Koto ware was established in 1829 by Kinuya Hanbei who invited an artisan trained in producing imari wares. The kilns continued production until 1842 where the Hikone clan took over and made the kilns part of the clan. The kilns declined after the assassination of Ii Naosuke in 1860 and the last existing kiln closed in 1895. The pottery is reminiscent of designs found in Imari wares and at the same time wares produced in Kutani. The vase has the name, Kotou which generally dates to the mid to late Edo period(circa 1830-1860). Size: Height: 11.25" Diameter: 7"