Vintage Merit China Hand-Painted Black Porcelain Cup and Saucer Set

This is an exquisite example of mid-20th-century Japanese porcelain, identified by the user as Merit China. The set consists of a wide-rimmed teacup and matching saucer, both crafted from fine porcelain with a distinctive matte black exterior and interior glaze. The primary decorative motif features large, hand-painted floral blooms in vibrant shades of poppy orange and lavender purple, accented with green foliage and delicate Moriage-style white beaded stamens. A significant amount of gold leaf gilding is visible, used specifically for the scalloped rim edges, the delicate floral outlines, and the solid gold-painted handle. The style is indicative of the post-WWII 'Occupied Japan' or early Mid-Century era, which frequently utilized high-contrast black backdrops for floral designs. Regarding condition, the porcelain appears structurally sound with no visible cracks or deep chips, though typical age-related wear is present on the gilding of the rim and handle. The hand-painted enamel remains bright and intact. The level of craftsmanship, particularly the fine line work of the gold outlines and the scalloped edges of the porcelain, indicates a high-quality decorative export piece.