Vintage Banko Ware Teapot with Elephant Rider - Marked Made in Japan

Description

Acquired from an Estate so exact origin is not known, but from research this lovely pottery Elephant shaped tea pot is vintage Banko Ware.  The bottom is marked "Made in Japan." The piece is 7 inches long, 3-3/4 inches wide and stands about 7-3/4 inches tall including the handle.  The tea pot has a weaved bamboo handle and has lovely hand painted design on the blanket covering the elephant, on the rider that forms the lid's handle and accenting the elephant's features.  The elephant's body has a matte finish while the colorful blanket has a shiny glaze finish.  This is a working tea pot with a strainer inside leading to the elephant's trunk that serves as the pourer.  What a wonderful vintage collectible!