Vintage item, never used. A charming Kutani-yaki 九谷焼 tea cup set, decorated with richly colored floral motifs, gold accents and classical Japanese calligraphic elements.
Each cup has a softly rounded form with a pale ivory-white glaze and delicate fine crazing, giving the surface a gentle aged character. The decoration combines red, green, blue, black and gold, with peony-like blossoms, chrysanthemums, patterned textile-inspired sections and lattice motifs arranged around a central panel of Japanese script. The composition is dense yet elegant, reflecting the ornamental spirit often associated with Kutani ware.
The use of vivid overglaze enamels and touches of gold recalls the celebrated decorative tradition of Kutani-yaki, which developed in present-day Ishikawa Prefecture. Kutani ceramics are especially known for their bold color combinations, intricate painted decoration and strong graphic presence, often drawing on flowers, landscapes, birds, auspicious symbols and classical Japanese themes.
Suitable for serving sencha, bancha, hōjicha or other Japanese teas, this matching set is also a lovely decorative example of traditional Japanese tableware.
