Shōwa period, 1950s–1980s
Vintage Japanese Teacup "Golden Flowers", 35 ml
Crafted in the traditional Japanese Kutani ware style (九谷焼). Kutani is an area in Ishikawa Prefecture renowned for traditional Japanese porcelain. This teacup is a classic example of the Kutani style: white porcelain, a rich red body, gold overglaze painting, and a decorative floral and figurative composition. The porcelain surface is enveloped in a deep red glaze (akae), adorned with intricate patterns hand-painted in genuine liquid gold. This technique mimics the look of luxurious brocade fabric woven with golden threads.
The circular central medallion depicts the Hō-ō phoenix (鳳凰 — Hōō)—a mythical sacred bird that symbolizes peace, prosperity, and harmony. It is set amidst lush peony blossoms (a symbol of wealth and nobility) and flowering plum branches.
Estimated to date from the mid-to-late 20th century (~1950s–1980s), during the Shōwa period.
The walls are relatively thin, making this cup best suited for light teas.
Specifications
Description
Crafted in the traditional Japanese Kutani ware style (九谷焼). Kutani is an area in Ishikawa Prefecture renowned for traditional Japanese porcelain. This teacup is a classic example of the Kutani style: white porcelain, a rich red body, gold overglaze painting, and a decorative floral and figurative composition. The porcelain surface is enveloped in a deep red glaze (akae), adorned with intricate patterns hand-painted in genuine liquid gold. This technique mimics the look of luxurious brocade fabric woven with golden threads.
The circular central medallion depicts the Hō-ō phoenix (鳳凰 — Hōō)—a mythical sacred bird that symbolizes peace, prosperity, and harmony. It is set amidst lush peony blossoms (a symbol of wealth and nobility) and flowering plum branches.
Estimated to date from the mid-to-late 20th century (~1950s–1980s), during the Shōwa period.
The walls are relatively thin, making this cup best suited for light teas.