Vintage Hand-Painted Japanese Lusterware Tea Set

This is a vintage nine-piece porcelain lusterware tea set originating from Japan, likely manufactured during the early to mid-20th century (c. 1920s-1950s). The set features a classic 'Made in Japan' or 'MIJ' aesthetic, characterized by its distinctive iridescent metallic glaze, known as lusterware, which reflects light in a spectrum of colors. The collection includes a covered teapot, salt and pepper shakers, and multiple plates of varying sizes. The physical decoration consists of hand-painted scenic landscapes featuring traditional Japanese motifs like lakeside views, trees, and mountaintops in a warm color palette of orange, burnt sienna, and grey. Construction is of fine-grained porcelain, traditionally thin-walled as is characteristic of export ware from this era. The luster finish is applied over a base color, creating the sunset-like gradient visible on the plates and jars. Notable features include the delicate handles on the teapot and the matching hand-painted continuity across all pieces. Regarding condition, there appears to be some minor surface wear and possible fading of the luster finish, which is common with age and handling. This type of ware often features a red or green 'Made in Japan' stamp on the underside. The overall craftsmanship reflects the high-volume yet skilled handicraft of the pre-war and immediate post-war Japanese porcelain industry, designed for the Western export market.