Eggshell Porcelain | Heirloom Quality | Handpainted Japanese Kutani | Tea Trio

Near perfect & exquisite example of transluscent Kutani eggshell porcelain from Japan, (complete with a handpainted Mount Fuji), from a deceased estate in Gothenburg, Sweden. This listing is for 1 cup, 1 matching saucer and 1 side plate, all inscribed with OJ (not Simpson, but Oscar Johansson, the seller's late grandfather (!); a seaman who bought the set in Japan for his wife).

The artist painted the gold leaf initials in front of Oscar, so the story goes. The high quality and simple wildlife design likely means it was originally made for the domestic market (items destined for tourists or export were often flashier, and hastily produced). As yet I've been unable to identify its exact provenance, but the hunt for pottery stamps in a foreign tongue requires patience, which, after three children, I have in abundance... so watch this space.

Cup diameter: 7cm, with handle 9.5cm
Cup height: 6.5cm
Saucer diameter: 12cm
Plate diameter: 15.5cm