Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An exceptionally fine Meiji-period Japanese porcelain teacup (yunomi) finely hand-painted with polychrome enamels and rich gilding. The narrative decoration features an anthropomorphic procession of mice carrying a rising sun banner alongside auspicious deities Daikokuten and Ebisu hauling a treasure sack. The base is marked in iron red under the footrim reading 'Kutani Kuryudo sei'.
Story
Made during Japan's dynamic Meiji era, this cup turns myth into whimsy, showing Daikokuten's sacred mice marching under a Rising Sun banner with bags of rice and fortune.
Maker / Origin
The red mark '九谷 久隆堂製' (Kutani Kuryudo sei) identifies this piece as originating from the Kuryudo workshop in Kaga (Ishikawa Prefecture). Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, such studios specialized in highly detailed moriage and miniature gold-gilt enameling for domestic connoisseurs and international export markets.
Condition & Value
Visually in very good condition with crisp, intact enamels and minimal wear to the gilt rim. No obvious chips or hairline cracks are visible in the provided photos. Values for Meiji-era Kutani teaware vary based on subject and condition.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.