Description
An elegant and finely detailed Japanese Satsuma tea set comprising a teacup, matching saucer, and dessert plate, all decorated in a richly patterned millefiori-style ground accented with hand-applied gilt and delicately painted butterflies.
Each piece features an intricate lattice of jewel-toned enamel work-rust, cobalt, celadon, and black-outlined in gold, creating a shimmering, textile-like surface. At the center of each piece, a softly rendered butterfly motif appears to float above the crackled ivory glaze, lending a lightness and refinement to the overall composition.
The forms are graceful and well balanced, with a gently flared cup, finely gilded rims, and a comfortable handle. The reverse of each piece bears a gilt Satsuma-style mark, consistent with early to mid-20th-century Japanese export wares.
This is a striking set whether displayed together in a cabinet, layered on open shelving, or styled on a table as an accent grouping. Sophisticated yet warm, it pairs beautifully with both traditional and modern interiors.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent vintage condition. Light, age-appropriate wear to gilt and glaze consistent with careful use. No cracks or repairs observed. Please review all photographs for details, as they form part of the description.
Origin:
Japan
Materials & Techniques:
Gold-Plate, Porcelain
Details:
Country of Origin: Japan
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Each piece features an intricate lattice of jewel-toned enamel work-rust, cobalt, celadon, and black-outlined in gold, creating a shimmering, textile-like surface. At the center of each piece, a softly rendered butterfly motif appears to float above the crackled ivory glaze, lending a lightness and refinement to the overall composition.
The forms are graceful and well balanced, with a gently flared cup, finely gilded rims, and a comfortable handle. The reverse of each piece bears a gilt Satsuma-style mark, consistent with early to mid-20th-century Japanese export wares.
This is a striking set whether displayed together in a cabinet, layered on open shelving, or styled on a table as an accent grouping. Sophisticated yet warm, it pairs beautifully with both traditional and modern interiors.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent vintage condition. Light, age-appropriate wear to gilt and glaze consistent with careful use. No cracks or repairs observed. Please review all photographs for details, as they form part of the description.
Origin:
Japan
Materials & Techniques:
Gold-Plate, Porcelain
Details:
Country of Origin: Japan
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Excellent vintage condition. Light, age-appropriate wear to gilt and glaze consistent with careful use. No cracks or repairs observed. Please review all photographs for details, as they form part of the description.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Dimensions
3.5 x 6.75 x 6.75 in
Antique Japanese Satsuma Butterfly Tea Cup, Saucer & Plate - Set of 3
Estimate $130-$490
Starting Bid
$65
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