This striking pair of hand-painted teacups and saucers is a fine example of Japanese Kutani ware. Each piece is beautifully decorated with colourful geishas, birds and florals, and finished with gilded detailing. A particularly lovely feature is the lithophane portrait hidden in the base of each cup – visible when held to the light.
These make a great addition to a display cabinet or could be used for special occasions. Delicate but full of character, they’re a charming slice of early 20th-century craftsmanship.
Details:
- Era: Early to mid-20th century
- Origin: Japan
- Materials: Porcelain with hand-painted enamel and gilt detailing
- Dimensions: Each cup H 5cm × W 6.5cm × D 8cm saucer 10cm diameter
- Condition notes: Good vintage condition with some minor wear to gilt in places
- Provenance/Story: Part of a small collection of vintage Japanese ceramics sourced from a private UK collector
- Care tips: Not suitable for dishwasher or microwave use. Hand wash only to preserve painted and gilded surfaces