Japanese Porcelain Teacups and Saucers

🍵 Japanese Hand-Painted Porcelain Teacups and Saucers (Possibly Kutani or Eggshell Porcelain)

📝 Item Description

This is a set of vintage Japanese porcelain teacups and saucers, likely made in the mid-20th century, possibly late 1940s–1960s. The pieces are:

• Hand-painted with floral motifs in pastel colors, detailed with gold accents on the handles.
• Marked “Made in Japan” with additional Japanese katakana script ビ (likely a stylized artist or workshop mark, possibly meant to be read “Pi” or “Bi”).
• Crafted in eggshell porcelain – extremely thin and somewhat translucent when held to the light.
• Cups: ~4" diameter; Saucers: ~5.5" diameter.
• Lightweight (approx. 6.6 oz. per set).

The decoration is reminiscent of Kutani-style patterns, but the more geometric border motifs also suggest post-war export ware, potentially from Seto or Arita kilns, which were prolific during that era.

🕰️ Historical Context

• The “Made in Japan” mark and style suggest these were exported post-WWII, likely between 1947–1960s.
• After WWII, many Japanese porcelain manufacturers began exporting large quantities of hand-painted items, particularly to the U.S. market.
• The inclusion of katakana script implies it may be a studio mark, though not from a well-known kiln like Kutani, Noritake, or Nippon.

🧾 Condition Overview

• 5 of 10 teacups have small chips or hairline cracks
• 4 of 12 saucers have visible damage (chips, one with a crack shown in your photo)
• Minor wear consistent with age, but the hand-painted designs are still vibrant and attractive.

💰 Current Market Value (As of 2025)

Condition

Estimated Value

Full set in excellent condition

$120–$160 USD

Your set (good w/ damage)

$50–$80 USD

Individual cup/saucer (mint)

$10–$15 USD

The reduced value reflects the number of damaged pieces. Still, collectors of vintage Japanese porcelain and decorators often appreciate these sets for their unique craftsmanship and aesthetic charm.

🧑‍🎨 Who Would Be Interested

• Collectors of Japanese export ware
• Enthusiasts of hand-painted porcelain
• Shoppers looking for decorative tea sets or display pieces
• Buyers nostalgic for post-war Japan/American design exchange

✅ Recommendations

• If selling: Consider listing on eBay, Etsy, or Ruby Lane under “Vintage Japanese Tea Set,” “Eggshell Porcelain,” or “Kutani-style Japan Export Ware.”
• Mention details: hand-painted, floral motif, eggshell translucency, and vintage age.
• You do not need a professional appraisal unless you suspect this is early or pre-war Kutani, which would be much more valuable.