Mikasa Fine Ivory Iris Cup (L9041)

This is a set of two ceramic coffee or tea cups manufactured by Mikasa in Japan. The cups are crafted from 'Fine Ivory' china, characterized by a smooth, off-white, creamy glazed finish. The primary decorative motif features a large, stylized iris flower in soft pastel tones of light blue, lavender, and pale pink, accented with green leaves and yellow centers. This pattern, likely L9041 'Iris' or a similar floral variant from the late 20th century (circa 1980s-1990s), displays a subtle, watercolor-like aesthetic popular in that era. The cups feature a rounded, bulbous body with a tapered base and a simple loop handle. Each cup rim appears to be finished with a thin, delicate gold-tone or metallic band, which adds a touch of elegance but suggests they may not be microwave-safe. On the underside of one cup, a gold backstamp is clearly visible, reading 'Mikasa Fine Ivory L 9041 JAPAN,' which confirms the maker and origin. The overall condition appears to be excellent with no visible chips, cracks, or heavy crazing, although some minor shelf wear on the unglazed foot ring is expected. The high-gloss glaze is intact, reflecting light evenly, which indicates well-maintained pieces of quality tableware.

I have virtually examined this pair of Mikasa Fine Ivory cups, pattern L9041 (Iris). The gold backstamp confirms the manufacture in Japan, a hallmark of Mikasa’s late 20th-century production. The 'Fine Ivory' line was noted for its durability and warm, creamy hue. Visually, the pieces appear in Excellent condition; the high-gloss glaze is uniform, and the pastel floral transfers show no evidence of fading or utensil scarring. The gold-tone rims appear intact, which is critical as these bands are prone to wear if machine-washed. The market for 1980s-90s floral fine china is currently saturated. While Mikasa remains a respected household name, the L9041 pattern is not considered rare or highly collectible. It is primarily sought by individuals looking to replace broken pieces in existing sets. Comparable sales for ivory tea/coffee cups of this era typically range from $10 to $20 per unit. The 'bulky' rounded shape is less trendy than modern minimalist designs, which limits broader market demand. While the markings and decoration are consistent with authentic Mikasa production, this appraisal is based solely on digital images. A physical inspection is required to check for 'flea bites' on the rim, resonance (to ensure no internal structural cracks), and tactile weight consistent with fine ivory china. Authenticity is assumed based on the standard hallmark, but certain high-end reproductions can occasionally mimic these stamps. For a definitive valuation, I would examine the pieces under UV light to detect professional repairs and verify the depth of the glaze.