The size of Choko: 3 15/16" Dia x 2 5/8" High (10cm x 6.7cm). Beautiful Kouki Nabeshima Porcelain O-Choko, Cup. Choko has very unusual shape which I never seen. It has top area with 5/8" band taped out which make more attractive shpae. The body is made so finely. It has the design of "Souka-mon"(flower and grass pattern). Condition: Excellent, no chip, no crack and no hairline. No wobble, well rounded, sit well. This is not considered to be flaw but as speaking strict detail condition, there is one micro indentation from kiln at the top edge in the size of 1 mm long and 0.5 mm shallow which has glazed over, so tiny. But you might able to see on photo no.5, at 9 'clock. The Kouki Nabeshima Book, page 154 Plate No.142 show same Choko. Also there is information of Choko at page 184 which showing photo of Tomobako which was discovered with this choko varify the box dating from Kouka Period(1844-1847), but cup was made little earlier. So this is also from Tenpo Nabeshima(1830-1843). This Japanese chapter also telling about the fine nabeshima pieces were went into the hand of merchants from Feudural lord because of the financial situation of some clan were in bad shape that they had to give up fine Nabeshima piece. Dating Choko from Tenpo period (1830-1843). Please note that 5th photo top area showing as pinkish color but it is not there just photo reflection.
Background of Kouki Nabeshima Few years back in 1828, Bunka 11th, there was a big fire in Arita southern parts which destroyed many kilns and manufature houses. Also, early Tenpo period, there was rice shortage because of back weather. The Lord Naomasa Nabeshima ordered to re-develope Nabeshima Yaki(ware) in order to support the financially for their own clan's need which they created again fine Nabeshima bowls which were flourished in early Edo Chuki from Genroru period.
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