Description:

East Asia, Japan, Showa era, ca. mid-20th century CE. A gorgeous set of lacquered and gilt wood tea cups and saucers, each cup and saucer meticulously finished with a glossy black lacquer exterior and glowing interiors gilded with gold ranging in purity from 52% to 81%. Comprising 12 cups with their matching saucers, this set offers 24 pieces in total. Every cup is individually decorated in the intricate maki-e technique, featuring a unique nature-inspired motif that glimmers with golden elegance. Among these designs are butterflies, cranes captured mid-flight, clusters of grapes, and a variety of blossoms including irises, daffodils, and cherry flowers, as well as leafy branches and vines. This harmonious blend of fine craftsmanship and natural imagery makes the set a stunning statement for display or refined tea service, embodying both luxury and artistry in every detail. Size of saucer: 4" Diameter x 0.75" H (10.2 cm x 1.9 cm); cup: Size: 2.5" L x 2" Diameter x 2.25" H (6.4 cm x 5.1 cm x 5.7 cm)

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1960's

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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#195713

  • Condition: Very minor scuffs on a few, but otherwise intact and excellent.

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Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

July 25, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000