
Vintage Japanese Lusterware Salt and Pepper Shaker Set
This is a pair of vintage Japanese lusterware salt and pepper shakers, likely dating from the 1920s to the 1940s. The set features a rectangular architectural form with rounded shoulders and a metallic gold-toned luster glaze on the domed tops and base sections. The central body of each shaker is hand-painted with a stylized landscape motif depicting dark, lithe trees with elongated leaves in shades of deep blue, green, and brown against a pale, iridescent sky. The base is finished in a warm tan or ochre luster that complements the metallic caps. The craftsmanship reflects the Art Deco influence common in Japanese export ceramics of the era, characterized by bold outlines and a shimmering, pearlescent finish. Regarding condition, there is visible wear to the gilding on the caps and edges, and typical minor glaze irregularities inherent to hand-painted production. While maker's marks are not visible in the primary photo, these sets were frequently stamped 'Made in Japan' or 'Noritake' on the bottom. The iridescent luster is the defining quality of this set, showing a multi-colored sheen when it catches the light, which was a highly popular technique for novelty tableware during the interwar period.
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Estimated Value
$25.00 - $45.00
Basic Information
Category
Antique/Vintage Kitchenware and Ceramics
Appraised On
January 19, 2026
Estimated Value
$25.00 - $45.00
Item Description
This is a pair of vintage Japanese lusterware salt and pepper shakers, likely dating from the 1920s to the 1940s. The set features a rectangular architectural form with rounded shoulders and a metallic gold-toned luster glaze on the domed tops and base sections. The central body of each shaker is hand-painted with a stylized landscape motif depicting dark, lithe trees with elongated leaves in shades of deep blue, green, and brown against a pale, iridescent sky. The base is finished in a warm tan or ochre luster that complements the metallic caps. The craftsmanship reflects the Art Deco influence common in Japanese export ceramics of the era, characterized by bold outlines and a shimmering, pearlescent finish. Regarding condition, there is visible wear to the gilding on the caps and edges, and typical minor glaze irregularities inherent to hand-painted production. While maker's marks are not visible in the primary photo, these sets were frequently stamped 'Made in Japan' or 'Noritake' on the bottom. The iridescent luster is the defining quality of this set, showing a multi-colored sheen when it catches the light, which was a highly popular technique for novelty tableware during the interwar period.
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