Reiko Nagata, Japanese studio pottery stoneware two layer bento box, c2010

Condition: Excellent condition, no chips cracks or restoration.

This is a two layered serving dish with a lid, in the form of a bento box, a Japanese term for a compartmentalised box designed for takeout meals.  It is made in stoneware decorated with slip panels painted with  designs in red and green, which is also used on other parts of the box along with a tenmoku glaze.  The whole piece is finished with a transparent glaze with a slight crackle.  The base of the box has an incised inscription and an impressed seal.

Reiko Nagata is a highly respected Japanese potter who has connections with the Leach pottery in St Ives, Cornwall, having had her ware sold there and run masterclasses in the area.  She design her own patterns and techniques for her pottery which is based on traditional Japanese designs.