Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An elegant Japanese sencha tea service featuring a side-handled teapot (kyusu), a cooling vessel (yuzamashi), and five matching tea cups (yunomi). The set is decorated in a striking deep cobalt blue glaze, heavily accented with hand-painted gold leaf chrysanthemums and delicate floral motifs.
Story
Deep in Ishikawa Prefecture, artisans perfected a style that captured the hearts of global collectors. This set was crafted specifically for sencha, a loose-leaf green tea ritual that prioritized casual, intellectual conversation over the rigid formality of matcha ceremonies.
Maker / Origin
While bearing a Kutani mark on the undersides, this set represents the collaborative workshop tradition of the region. Kutani production relies on a division of labor where specialized potters throw the porcelain and master decorators apply the intricate overglaze enamels and gold leaf.
Condition & Value
The set appears to be in very good vintage condition with no visible chips or cracks. There is minor, expected rubbing to the gold leaf on the rims and handles from gentle handling. Excellent preservation of the gold decoration maintains its value.
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.