Preliminary identification

Blue Danube 'Onion Pattern' Teacups and Saucers, Halsey Fifth Line

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A set of three fine porcelain teacups and saucers featuring the iconic cobalt blue underglaze 'Onion' pattern. These pieces bear the 'Halsey Fifth' mark, identifying them as early-to-mid-production items from…

Story

In 1951, American importer William Lipper traveled to Japan with a vision to recreate the legendary 18th-century Meissen 'Blue Onion' pattern for a new generation of American homeowners.

Maker / Origin

Lipper International (originally Lipper & Mann) was a pioneer in the post-war ceramics trade, specializing in high-quality Japanese porcelain.

Condition & Value

The pieces appear to be in excellent vintage condition with vibrant blue tones and clear marks. There is minor shelf wear on the unglazed foot rims, which is standard for the age. No visible chips or cracks are apparent, though the scalloped edges should be checked for tiny 'flea bites' which can slightly reduce value.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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.

Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD