Meiji period (1868-1912), 19th century, a very well cast vessel, the body encircled with three elephant faces, their elegantly curved trunks forming resting feet, their large ears with touches of gilt, the interior has two family crests (kamon) associated with the Imperial household, a paulownia flower (kiri-mon) and chrysanthemum (kiku-mon), with inscription to the left reading in Japanese tenka fujiwara, two characters follow but are illegible due to wear.

11 1/4 in.

Rubbing and wear; patina from age and use to exterior and interior; slight nicks to the tusks; the tusks of the elephant can be removed.

$1,000 - 1,500