Hand-painted Kutani eggshell porcelain cup and saucer - riverside geisha scene

This beautiful hand-painted Kutani eggshell porcelain cup and saucer is in excellent condition. It is difficult to date Kutani ware (Kutani-yaki) precisely but the use of fine eggshell porcelain and the high quality of the painting on this duo indicate it was produced at the beginning of the twentieth century. This antique pair are both signed to the base. It was almost certainly produced for export - after the re-opening of Japan to the West, there was a fascination with Japanese culture that resulted in the widespread Japonisme in Europe, with many artists and designers being influenced by these pieces as they became available. I particularly like the slightly squared shape of the saucer. They would be an excellent addition to a collection and could certainly be used but will need to be handwashed. 

Please look closely at the photographs as they form part of the description. If you have any questions at all, please get in touch directly (contact@eldercroftandsons.co.nz). 

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