A Japanese Oribe Style Duck Form Incense Box
Meiji Period
With an inscribed wooden storage box dated June 1895.

Modeled as a resting duck with its head turned back, the incense box combines a rounded body with a gracefully curved neck and raised feather details. Rich green glaze covers the head and wings, contrasting with the cream colored, crackled glaze of the body. The upper section lifts off to reveal the container.

The wooden box inscription identifies the work as a large duck-form incense box and records June of Meiji 28, corresponding to 1895. Additional inscriptions describe it as a cherished object of Ryu-o and a treasured possession of Meikankaku. The date is recorded on the storage box rather than the ceramic itself.

Box inscription: Large duck-form incense box. June, summer of Meiji 28, 1895. Cherished by Ryu-o. Treasured in the Meikankaku collection.

{H 5 x W 6 3/8 x D 3 3/8 inches (12.7 x 16.2 x 8.6 cm)}.

Provenance: From the collection of a distinguished Japanese collector in San Jose, California, whose life included travels in Manchuria during the 1930s and incarceration in a U.S. internment camp following the attack on Pearl Harbor. These works bear witness to a precious family history and to the conviction and courage needed to preserve cultural heritage through adversity. Upon receiving the family's photographs, newspaper articles, and archival materials, Michaan's Auctions was deeply moved by their thoughtful preservation and enduring respect for history, culture, and art. We are honored to present treasures from this family collection.

For condition report and additional photos, please contact the Asian Art Department.