Charming pair of early Edo porcelain bird whistles in the form of two reclining boys resting their heads on their hands. Decorated in Kakiemon-type overglaze enamels and produced in Arita kilns between 1680 and 1700. Rare early examples inspired by Chinese Blanc de Chine figures.
Both in very good condition with some surface wear and loss of enamels consistent with age and usage.
Length: approx. 8 cm
Origin: Japan
Date of production: Edo period, c. 1680-1700
Material: Arita porcelain
References:
Similar example in the collection of the V&A Museum
http://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O493668/whistle-unknown/
Fine & Curious, Japanese Export Porcelain in Dutch Collections, Christiaan J.A. Jörg. Page 278, image 348
