Cantonese Wu Chen Imari Teapot

A stunning and colourful traditional shaped Cantonese Teapot featuring a Geisha putting up a parasol.

The maker’s mark states that the piece is: Yang Cheng Wu Chen Nian Zhi - Canton Wu Chen Year. Matching Years for 'Wu Chen' are 1808, 1868, 1928 and 1988. I understand this piece was made in 1928 but it could have been one of the earlier years.

This beautifully hand painted teapot has the most vibrant colouring using the bright traditional colours of Imari-ware: deep blue, red, green and gold.

Each side of the teapot has the same hand painted picture of a Geisha putting up her parasol, being helped by a man. Another lady is bending down. There is a beautiful floral pattern to the handle and body; roses with hand painted gold petals flanked by green leaves, with smaller white blossoms here and there. There are also chrysanthemums which is unusual since these are the national flowers of Japan. Also rather odd is the fact that Geishas are also Japanese.

This unusual teapot is in excellent condition with no chips or cracks. It measures approx. 19cm (including the handle) x 17cm x 9cm.

A rare and unique teapot, I haven’t been able to find anything similar to it in shape, colour or design – very unusual.