Skip to main content
Freshwater jar (mizusashi) with lion, peony, and orchid design
Freshwater jar (mizusashi) with lion, peony, and orchid design

Freshwater jar (mizusashi) with lion, peony, and orchid design

Place of OriginSaga prefecture, Japan
Date1650-1660
PeriodEdo period (1615-1868)
MaterialsPorcelain with cobalt pigment under clear glaze; lacquered wood (lid)
DimensionsH. 8 in x W. 7 in, H. 20.3 cm x W. 17.8 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB62P1+
DepartmentJapanese Art
ClassificationsCeramics
On View
Not on view
More Information
The freshwater container (mizusashi) is a utensil used to replenish water in the kettle during a gathering and to rinse tea bowls to signify its end. Often the first utensil carried into the tearoom, this large vessel sets the tone for the host’s selection of utensils for a given occasion.
Subject
  • lion
  • peony
  • orchid