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Japanese Antique Paper-covered Large Ceramic Jar 1860s-1900s / Vessel Wabisabi
On Hold
$3,500
On Hold
£2,672.53
On Hold
€3,042.78
On Hold
CA$4,914.55
On Hold
A$5,372.57
On Hold
CHF 2,842.33
On Hold
MX$64,291.41
On Hold
NOK 36,164.57
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SEK 33,105.01
On Hold
DKK 22,727.65
About the Item
This is an exceptionally rare large ceramic jar from Japan, covered in paper. It was made during the Meiji period (1860s–1900s) and was originally used for transporting and storing tea leaves. Although it once served as a practical vessel, its sculptural presence is overwhelming—simply placing it in a room alters the atmosphere with a deep and quiet intensity.
The most distinctive feature of this jar is the structure of straw rope tightly wrapped around the center of the ceramic body, over which layers of paper were carefully applied. The rope reinforced the jar and protected it from cracking during transport, while the paper served to shield the tea leaves inside from humidity. Though created purely for practical purposes, the interplay of the rope’s uneven texture and the layered paper produces a three-dimensional surface so striking that it could easily be mistaken for a contemporary art piece.
More than a century has passed, and the paper fibers have risen, worn edges and peeling surfaces forming a natural rhythm over time. Countless tiny holes and subtle shifts in color testify to its long life, creating an abstract, painterly landscape born entirely of age and chance—an embodiment of wabi-sabi. It is a beauty unattainable by human intention alone, shaped solely by the passage of time.
What is truly remarkable is that a jar of this size and construction has survived to this day without major cracks. I have encountered countless tea-storage jars, yet in over twenty years as a buyer, this is the first time I have come across one with such a unique design and commanding presence.
The mouth measures approximately 250 mm. Although it cannot hold water, it is ideal as a sculptural artwork or as a centerpiece object within an interior space. This jar is a miraculous expression of form—natural materials transformed over time into art, embodying the quiet beauty of Japanese daily culture.
Weight: approx. 20 kg
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Our Philosophy
Objects always tell the truth.
All I can do is just to face with them sincerely and give
them deep affection as much as I can.
There is no boundary of nationalities and of eras in beauty.
But I think now is the time we choose 'Japanese style' and it
will be the best way to remind us of what we are losing
today and to question us about an essence of beauty again.
I hope that you can touch the memories which the objects here have,
feel and think of something invisible but exists undoubtedly.
- Similar to:Axel Vervoordt (Designer)
- Dimensions:Height: 30.71 in (78 cm)Diameter: 21.66 in (55 cm)
- Style:Meiji (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1860s-1900s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Chōsei District Nagara, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU10403247873262
About the Seller
4.8
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Established in 2017
1stDibs seller since 2025
65 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 2 hours
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Chōsei District Nagara, Japan
- Return Policy
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