This is a rare antique tea cup and saucer set that traveled from Japan to England and returned home again. The Japanese landscape depicted in gold on a deep black background is a masterpiece that exudes an exotic charm.

The most distinctive feature is the ``openwork'' technique, in which the face of a geisha appears on the bottom of the cup when exposed to light. This advanced decorative technique using double-walled porcelain is the essence of traditional Japanese craftsmanship used in export ceramics from the Meiji period to the early Showa period. When you lift the cup and hold it up to the light, the figure of a geisha mysteriously appears, surprising the drinker.

What is depicted in gold on a jet black background is a Japanese landscape of a five-storied pagoda, Japanese houses, and pine trees with Mt. Fuji in the background. The outside and inside edges of the cup, as well as the edges of the saucer, are decorated with decorative bands in a geometric pattern, creating a unified design throughout. The inside of the cup has a pale blue-white porcelain skin that reflects the color of your drink beautifully. The curved gold handle is also an elegant accent, and you can feel the craftsmanship of the past every time you pick it up.

Recommended usage/applications

The mini size makes it ideal for enjoying high-quality Japanese teas such as espresso, strong black tea, and gyokuro. It creates a luxurious time where you can enjoy a small amount slowly.

If you use it to entertain guests, the openwork design will create a buzz and make your tea time memorable. The moment a geisha appears when you hold it up to the light, it provides a magic-like surprise and excitement.

In addition to its practical use, it is also recommended to display it in a glass cabinet as a collection item of Japanese antiques. It can also be used to store accessories and small items, or as a stationery holder around your desk. It would also be a great gift for those who like Japanese-Western interiors or those who are interested in Japanorism.

Interior coordination proposal

In a modern Japanese interior, by combining it with simple Japanese furniture and decorative shelves with a lattice design, you can create a space that exudes traditional beauty within modernity. If you place it in an alcove with indirect lighting or on a display shelf, the contrast between black and gold will stand out and create a sophisticated atmosphere.

In a Japonisme-style space, by displaying it together with other export ceramics, Ukiyo-e replicas, fans, and other Japanese accessories, you can recreate the worldview of Japanese art that was loved in Europe at the end of the 19th century. It pairs perfectly with dark wood furniture and velvet fabrics.

In an eclectic mixed style, displaying it on top of a vintage trunk case or alongside antique books creates a romantic space where travel and culture intersect. If you combine it with brass accessories, dried flowers, old maps, etc., you'll create a display that tells a story.

The playful gimmick of a geisha appearing when exposed to light is the result of a technique used by Japanese craftsmen to amaze Westerners. This tea set is both practical and artistic, and will bring a special story and beauty to your space.

About quality and condition

As this is a reused product, there is some signs of use compared to a new product.

There may be some color unevenness due to repair marks or aging.

There may be slight scratches or scuff marks due to use, but this does not affect use.

There may be slight differences in color tone between the photo and the actual product.

[About confirmation at physical store]

You can actually view this product at our physical store in Meito Ward, Nagoya City. Please be sure to check out the textures and colors in-store, which are difficult to convey through online images and descriptions. *Depending on the situation of business negotiations at the store, there may be cases where the display is temporarily unavailable. We recommend that you contact us in advance of your visit.