New Japan Tea Cup and Saucer

Item Description:

• Origin: Japan
• Material: Porcelain with raised gold detailing (moriage style)
• Markings: Stamp on the bottom (potentially “New Japan” or a Japanese Kutani mark)
• Condition: Mint
• Date Period: Estimated early 1900s
• For Sale: Yes

Identification & History

Your tea set appears to be Japanese Satsuma or Kutani-style porcelain, likely from the late Meiji (1868-1912) or Taisho (1912-1926) period. The raised gold (moriage) decoration and hand-painted design are characteristic of high-quality Kutani or Satsuma export porcelain.

The Mark

• The red stamp on the bottom could indicate post-Meiji export ware, and “New Japan” may reference items marked after Japan’s modernization period.
• The hand-painted figures and landscape scene are traditional Japanese motifs, often found on Satsuma or Kutani wares.

Value Assessment

Factors Affecting Value:

1. Condition:
   • Your tea set is in mint condition, increasing its value.
2. Age & Authenticity:
   • If confirmed as early 20th-century Kutani or Satsuma, it has collector interest.
3. Decorative Style:
   • The moriage gold detailing and vibrant hand-painted features enhance value.
4. Market Demand:
   • Japanese antiques are increasingly sought after, especially high-quality hand-painted tea sets.

Estimated Value:

• $100 – $300 (for common Kutani-style export pieces).
• $400 – $800+ (if it’s an authentic early 1900s hand-painted Satsuma or signed Kutani piece).

A professional appraisal could confirm the exact origin and increase its collectible value.

Recommendations for Selling or Appraisal

1. Confirm the Stamp:
   • Research the maker’s mark using online databases or consult an Asian ceramics expert.
2. Get a Professional Appraisal:
   • If selling, an appraisal can help you verify authenticity and maximize value.
3. Where to Sell:
   • Antique shops, eBay, Ruby Lane, Etsy (vintage section), or specialized Asian art dealers.
   • Auction houses (e.g., Bonhams, Christie’s, or Heritage Auctions) if verified as rare.

Very odd, The marking on the saucer (Dà Qīng Yōngzhèng Nián Zhì) translates to "Made during the Yongzheng reign of the Great Qing Dynasty." The Yongzheng Emperor ruled China from 1722 to 1735. However, many Chinese these markings are not of the period. Chinese Porcelain pieces bear reign marks even if they were produced later as a way to honor earlier artistic styles. 

The marking on this teacup reads:

The marking on the cup, 大日本 (Dai Nippon) translates to "Great Japan" and was commonly used on Japanese porcelain during the Meiji period (1868–1912) 

When you find such markings it generally indicates Japanese Imitation of Chinese Porcelain. During the Meiji period (1868–1912), Japanese artisans often created pieces mimicking Chinese porcelain, sometimes using Qing reign marks. Some Kutani or Satsuma wares incorporated Chinese-style markings for stylistic or commercial appeal.