Description A LACQUERED WOOD HISHAKU (WATER LADLE)Japan, Edo Period (1615-1868). The ladle with a long straight handle pierced with one aperture for suspension, covered to the exterior in black lacquer with densely scattered mother-of-pearl inlays, the interior of the container lacquered in vermillion.Condition: Good condition, some wear to the lacquer, minor losses to the inlays, small cracks.Provenance: Dutch collection. An old Japanese label to the interior.Weight: 116 gDimensions: Length 49.3 cmLadles such as the present lot are used in Japan during the chozu ritual. Chozu (cleansing yourself) is a customary way to purify yourself before making any prayers at shrines or temples in Japan. The Chozuya is a large basin equipped with special wooden ladles (hishaku), usually located at the entrance of shrines and temples. It is customary for visitors to purify themselves here before stepping on sacred grounds.