A rare 17th century Shonzui type kōgō (incense container box) modelled in the form of a standing Chinese Hami Melon with stem and leaf, brilliantly decorated in rich cobalt blue tones with moths amidst flowering vines
 
Shonzui type, Transitional Period (Old Blue-and-White) made for Japan
Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province, China
 
Measurements
7.0 cm high; 5.5 cm wide
 
Description
The superbly modelled Chinese Hami melon container with naturalistic stem and leaf, vividly and superbly painted in underglaze blue with moths of various sizes fluttering through leafy foliage and flamboyant flowers.
 
Condition
The base in perfect condition. The cover with an elegant kintsugi repair. The precious stem and leaf are amazingly intact and undamaged.