Three Japanese Hirado ware blue and white tea bowls, covers and stands,
Meiji period (1868-1912), painted with boys at play, either catching butterflies or pushing a snowball next to bamboo, various makers,
stands approximately 12.5cm diameter,, and
four further covers and stands,
similarly decorated (17)

Hirado ware was produced in the area around Nagasaki near the Arita kilns. With its very white body and refined cobalt decoration, it was initially made for domestic use only and was, reserved for the local feudal lord. In the nineteenth century, Hirado ware was exported to Europe, where it became popular for its delicacy.