Bowl with design of landscape and genre scenes c. late 19th century

This bowl was made by Ryusan, using glazed porcelain painted with intricate designs. The smooth, cool surface invites touch, yet the detailed imagery discourages handling. The bowl's elaborate decoration features both landscape and genre scenes, demanding considerable time and skill. Ryusan's mark indicates a high degree of craftmanship and control, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of materials and techniques. Yet, the lack of precise dating tells us this artwork could be either mass-produced for export or a unique piece made for a select market. The painted scenes, combined with the bowl's form, suggest a merging of art and craft, challenging traditional distinctions. Appreciating this bowl fully requires understanding its materials, the making process, and the context in which it was created, acknowledging how artistic expression and functionality intersect.