By Ryoko, signed Ryoko Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)
Depicting a woman washing clothes in a round tub while an old man stands right behind her in a suggestive position, holding a cane in one hand and pointing at the woman with the other, a young child is kneeling beside them. Their garments, hair and other details are finely incised. The okimono has a beautiful, naturally grown honey-golden patina. Two-character signature RYOKO to the underside of the tub.
HEIGHT 5.5 cm
Condition: Absolutely perfect condition despite many exposed areas. Provenance: Belgian private collection.