tea set Value & Appraisal

Japanese Moriage Dragonware Tea Pot

Japanese Moriage Dragonware Tea Pot
Origin: Japan
Period: Circa 1920s–1940s (Taishō to early Shōwa period)
Style: Moriage Satsuma-style Dragonware
Material: Porcelain with raised slip (moriage) decoration
Mark: The red label on the base marked “Made in Japan” with a serial number suggests post-1921 export and likely pre-1952 manufacture
Condition: Excellent (based on images, no apparent cracks, chips, or heavy wear)

Description:

This is a beautifully preserved example of Japanese "Dragonware"—a type of moriage porcelain characterized by raised, hand-applied enamel decoration featuring mythological dragons in dynamic poses. The tea pot is part of a set commonly brought back by servicemen during World War II as souvenirs.

The dark-to-light gradient glaze (black to gray with white) is typical of this style, and the finely detailed dragon in relief adds both aesthetic and collectible value. The lid appears original and intact, which is important for maintaining full value.

Historical Significance:

The label suggests this was manufactured for export, likely between the 1920s and 1940s. These pieces became widely known due to U.S. servicemen returning from Japan and the Pacific with such items after WWII. Dragonware became especially popular in the U.S. collector market during the mid-20th century.

Estimated Value:

Individual Tea Pot: $35 – $60 USD
Full Tea Set (with cups, saucers, sugar, creamer, etc.): $150 – $250 USD (depending on condition and completeness)

Prices may increase for full sets in pristine condition with original boxing or provenance (e.g., documented connection to a WWII soldier).

Selling Recommendations:

If you wish to sell in the U.S., consider:

eBay (popular for niche collectors)
Etsy (especially for vintage home décor)
RubyLane.com (for more curated antique sales)
Local antique shops or consignment dealers

Recommendation:

If you have additional pieces (e.g., teacups, saucers, sugar bowl, creamer), it’s ideal to photograph and document them for a full set appraisal. For highest return, selling as a complete set is recommended. If the set has provenance (e.g., a note from your great uncle or a period photo), this could further increase buyer interest.

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