Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite, miniature Kutani porcelain teacup (sakazuki or gyokuro-wan) featuring ultra-fine polychrome enamel and gold leaf decoration of dense, overlapping seasonal flowers (hana-zushi). The base bears the hand-painted iron-red signature 'Kutani Kaburaki' (九谷 鏑木), identifying it as a product of the legendary Kanazawa workshop.
Story
Crafted during Japan's golden age of export porcelain, this tiny cup was designed for the slow, meditative appreciation of high-grade gyokuro green tea. Its dense floral pattern represents a miniature cosmos of nature's fleeting beauty.
Maker / Origin
Established in 1822 in Kanazawa, the Kaburaki studio was the very first Kutani porcelain merchant shop. They became world-renowned during the Meiji period for commissioning the finest local painters to decorate porcelain blanks, winning awards at international expositions and defining the luxurious 'Kutani Gold' aesthetic.
Condition & Value
The cup appears to be in excellent antique condition with no visible chips, cracks, or hairline fractures. There is minor, age-appropriate wear to the gold gilding along the rim where it would have been handled, which is normal and confirms its authenticity. Excellent condition commands a premium.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.