Teapot - Ceramic - Antique Kutani Teapot

Antique Japanese Kutani Teapot — Iron Red | Hand-Painted Birds & Chrysanthemum | Meiji Period

The generous rounded barrel form, the bold iron red glaze sweeping across the upper body and lid, and the lively hand-painted scene wrapping around the white reserve below.

The main body is painted with a fluid, naturalistic scene of birds in flight — a kingfisher-style bird with blue-grey wings and warm russet breast sweeping low across a waterside landscape of chrysanthemums, grasses and pink blossoms, all rendered in the bold confident brushwork typical of Meiji period Kutani production. The iron red radial grass strokes are particularly expressive, giving the composition real energy and movement.

The upper shoulder carries the characteristic Kutani wave-pattern border in red and gold where it meets the white reserve. The lid is decorated with chrysanthemum blooms in pink, green and yellow on a sectioned red and cream ground — a different but complementary decorative scheme that adds visual interest from above.

The spout and handle are fully glazed in iron red, with small loop handle attachments on either side of the neck — a practical and charming detail typical of this form of Japanese export teapot.

The Mark:
The base bears a red artist's or potter's mark in cursive script — consistent with Meiji period Kutani production where individual painters or workshops often signed their work rather than using formal kiln marks.

Measurements:
Height: 15cm
Base diameter: 9cm
Weight: approx. 700g

Good antique condition consistent with age.