The exterior of the bowl has an intricate formal design of stylized flowers, tassels and lines all interconnected and enclosed top and bottom by red lines. Just above the shallow foot there is a band of intersecting circular forms. On the base there is a large four character mark that translates as fu-ki-cho-shun (the perpetual spring of riches and honors) mark. The bowl measures 5” diameter at the top – is 2” high and is 2 1/3” diameter at the base. It is in excellent condition.

In 1675, the local Nabeshima family who ruled Arita established an official kiln to make top-quality enamelware porcelain for the upper classes in Japan, which came to be called Nabeshima ware. After 1757, the Arita kilns filled domestic needs only. Because Imari was the shipping port, the porcelain, both export and domestic, is called Ko-Imari (old Imari). Ko-Imari: "Ko" meaning old, Ko-Imari follows Shoki-Imari historically, and generally refers to the late 17th century through the mid Edo period. Like Shoki-Imari Ko-Imari is highly desired and expensive..

* Historically, the swastika became a sacred symbol in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Mithraism and Shamanism; religions with a total of more than a billion adherents worldwide, making the swastika ubiquitous in both historical and contemporary society. The symbol rose to importance in Buddhism during the Mauryan Empire. Buddhism originated in India in the 5th century BCE and inherited the manji or swastika. Also known as a "yung drung"] in ancient Tibet, it was a graphical representation of eternity. This symbol (right-hand) is alleged to have been stamped on The Buddha's chest by his initiates after his death. It is known as The Heart's Seal. This would predate any other particular use ascribed to it in other texts.Today the symbol is used in Buddhist art and scripture and represents dharma, universal harmony, and the balance of opposites. It is often sewn into the collars of Chinese children's clothing to protect them from evil spirits