Kutani Ware Teacup Appraisal

Japanese Kutani Dragonware Teacup Saucer

This item is a Japanese Kutani porcelain teacup saucer, likely part of a broader tea set or demitasse set, made in Japan. It features a distinctive 'dragonware' or moriage (slip-trailed decoration) technique, creating a raised, tactile surface. The saucer's central well is off-white or cream, transitioning to a dark, almost black or very dark grey rim. A prominent, ornate dragon motif is depicted in raised enamels, primarily in metallic silver, gold, and bronze tones, with intricate scale details and a fierce expression. The dragon's body wraps around the saucer, with its head positioned near the edge of the central well and its tail extending towards the opposite side. Notably, the dragon's eyes appear to be small blue beads, typical of Kutani dragonware. Swirling cloud-like patterns in light blue and grey tones complement the dragon design, adding to the mythical aesthetic. The outer rim of the saucer is a rich reddish-brown, encircled by a series of small, raised white dots, indicating careful detail work. The overall condition appears good, with minor signs of wear expected from age and use, such as slight loss to the raised enamels or possible crazing, though these cannot be fully confirmed without closer inspection. The craftsmanship is evident in the intricate moriage work and the precise painting, suggesting a mid-20th century production, consistent with the popularity of these specific Japanese export wares during that period. The associated vase in the background appears to be part of a matching set, exhibiting similar design characteristics and color palette.