The crackle of the glaze of this bowl is a deliberate effect, perhaps in imitation of the celebrated imperial Guan wares. Celadon bowls of conical shape, with a small foot, became particularly popular with Japanese collectors.

Before being purchased by Robert Mill (College, 1946-51) this piece was in the collection of Mrs Amber Blanco White OBE (1887-1981), who had a notorious affair with H.G. Wells and was the model for the ‘new woman’ in his novel Anne Veronica (1909).

Provenance: Amber Blanco White OBE (1887-1981); Bluett & Sons, London, 1954, where purchased by Robert Mill (1933-2020) and bequeathed by him to Winchester College, 2020

Location: Treasury, Gallery 2