Thank you for sharing the photos of your Japanese tea set, which features a striking raised dragon motif and a sticker that appears to read “Hand Painted Made in Japan.” Based on the images and your notes, here is a detailed appraisal:
Summary
Item: Hand-Painted Japanese Dragonware Moriage Tea Set
Date Period: Circa 1940s–1950s (likely post-WWII, based on the style and sticker)
Origin: Japan
Medium: Porcelain with moriage (raised slip decoration) and hand-painted detailing
Design Features:
Classic Satsuma-style dragonware with applied moriage outlines.
Black-to-white gradient with pearlescent dragon motifs.
Gilded accents on the rims, lids, and handles.
Includes: teapot with lid, creamer, sugar bowl with lid, and at least five teacups with saucers.
Condition: Excellent (based on visible photos; no chips or cracks apparent)
Historical Background:
This style of tea set is typically referred to as Dragonware Moriage, popular from the late Meiji period through the mid-20th century. Post-war pieces (1945–1952) were often marked “Made in Japan” or “Japan” rather than “Nippon.” The dragon motif—especially when raised in relief using moriage techniques—is a signature design from this era, often intended for export.
Estimated Value (Retail):
Full 15-piece set (like yours): $125–$250 USD
Individual pieces: $10–$25 each depending on condition
Factors that can increase value:
Original box or documentation
Signature or maker’s stamp under glaze
Additional rare forms (e.g., lidded sugar bowl with ornate handles)
Where to Sell:
If you're considering selling this tea set, here are a few online and local venues that cater to vintage and collectible Japanese porcelain:
Since your tea set has strong visual appeal and appears complete, you may wish to contact a local antique appraiser if you are interested in selling for top dollar. Otherwise, eBay with a well-lit photo set and detailed description is a good option to reach a broad audience.
Hand-Painted Japanese Dragonware Moriage Tea Set
Thank you for sharing the photos of your Japanese tea set, which features a striking raised dragon motif and a sticker that appears to read “Hand Painted Made in Japan.” Based on the images and your notes, here is a detailed appraisal:
Summary
Item:
Hand-Painted Japanese Dragonware Moriage Tea Set
Date Period:
Circa 1940s–1950s (likely post-WWII, based on the style and sticker)
Origin:
Japan
Medium:
Porcelain with moriage (raised slip decoration) and hand-painted detailing
Design Features:
Condition:
Excellent (based on visible photos; no chips or cracks apparent)
Historical Background:
This style of tea set is typically referred to as Dragonware Moriage, popular from the late Meiji period through the mid-20th century. Post-war pieces (1945–1952) were often marked “Made in Japan” or “Japan” rather than “Nippon.” The dragon motif—especially when raised in relief using moriage techniques—is a signature design from this era, often intended for export.
Estimated Value (Retail):
Where to Sell:
If you're considering selling this tea set, here are a few online and local venues that cater to vintage and collectible Japanese porcelain:
Online:
Recommendation:
Since your tea set has strong visual appeal and appears complete, you may wish to contact a local antique appraiser if you are interested in selling for top dollar. Otherwise, eBay with a well-lit photo set and detailed description is a good option to reach a broad audience.