China, 1572-1620. The shallow rounded sides supported on a short foot and rising to a flared and gently barbed rim. Boldly painted in shades of cobalt blue with a star-shaped panel enclosing a grasshopper perched on a craggy perforated rock with outstretched hind legs beside large chrysanthemums and a bamboo shoot., encircled by circular panels connected by scrolling vines and enclosing floral sprays, leaves, and auspicious emblems, the exterior painted with lobes enclosing stylized flowerheads.

Provenance: From the collection of Sir Hugh Cortazzi, thence by descent. Sir Arthur Henry Hugh Cortazzi (1924-2018) was a British diplomat. He was also a distinguished international businessman, academic, author, and prominent Japanologist. He was Ambassador from the United Kingdom to Japan from 1980 to 1984 and President of the Asiatic Society of Japan between 1982 and 1983. During his time as ambassador, he developed a passion for Chinese and Japanese art, building an extensive collection. After his retirement, he served as chairman of the Japan Society of London from 1985 to 1995, and continued to work promoting better Anglo-Japanese relations. In addition to the books he has written or edited, he regularly wrote reviews and a recurring column in the Japan Times. Many of the pieces in his collection are now housed in the British Museum.
Condition: Good condition with expected old wear and firing flaws including glaze oxidation, firing cracks, glaze lines and recesses, pitting, and kiln grit. Very minor fritting to rim.

Weight: 257.6 g
Dimensions: Diameter 20.5 cm

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Woolley & Wallis, 22 May 2018, lot 179
Price: GBP 9,500 or approx. EUR 13,000 adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: Chinese blue and white egret-marked Kraak 'cricket' dish, Wanli, 1573-1620
Expert remark: Compare the related form and manner of painting. Note the related size (19.7 cm).