Meiji period, 1868-1912, for serving soup or rice. 4 3/4” diameter with angular medial and recurved section above and below. Red/brown exterior and dark chocolate interior. The outside plain with fine gold diving cranes to the inside cover and a further gold crane with the well. A guest is greeted with a plain bowl but discovers the artistry when removing the top and again as he consumes the contents. Excellent but for a 1” separation of the lacquer in the bowl.
