A rare Imari porcelain ‘Black Ship’ koro and cover, c. 1890, Meiji Period. The boat shaped koro, rising at either end and terminating in handles, beneath which are twin masks, holding rings. Set upon three mask head and paw feet. The body painted with a ‘Black Ship’ in full sail, the reverse with four Dutch Traders in conversation, on an iron red ground. The pierced dome cover, surmounted by a seated kylin. Length – 17 cm, 6 5/8”. Height – 17.5 cm, 6 7/8”. Depth – 9.3 cm, 3 5/8”. Condition – Excellent. No damage. No restoration.
