How do I know if my Japanese tea set is antique?
Look For Handwritten Markings Examine writing on the bottom of the tea set. If there are handwritten marks, the tea set is made before the 1800s, before stamping was used. If the tea set has a stamped logo, lettering and/or numbers that are not blue, the set was made after 1850.
What is a Japanese tea set called?
teapots
Japanese teapots come in three main shapes and are also known as kyusus. The teapot handles make each style distinctive and add a new dimension to the art of brewing and pouring tea. The teapots are created mainly in the Mie, Gifu, Aichi, and Niigata prefectures.
Are items marked Made in Japan valuable?
These pieces usually were marked “Made in Occupied Japan,” “Made in Japan” or simply “Japan.” The products–including souvenirs, lamps, dinnerware and toys–eventually became collectible. From what we’ve seen in dealer catalogues, however, their value is relatively low, with few items approaching the $50 level.
Are old Japanese tea sets worth anything?
For instance, one seller has an occupied Japan teacup and saucer listed for a little over $10; yet, more extensive sets, like this 10 piece teacup set, as well as those made prior to the 20th century can be worth a few hundred dollars.
Why do Japanese tea cups have no handles?
Chinese teacups are usually made of porcelain, and the shape without handles is more convenient both for production and transportation. And there are specific temperatures for brewing certain tea. In this case, a cup with no handle allows people to hold it with hands and feel the temperature by themselves.
Why are Japanese tea cups small?
One reason for the small cups is because they’re better for taste and appreciation of fine quality teas. When brewing tea the traditional gong-fu way, the general rule is, more leaves, less water, quick infusions. The small cups allows you to really appreciate the taste and flavour of each stage of the tea.
When did made in Japan stop?
1921
It was manufactured in Japan (“Nippon” means “Japan”) from 1865, when the country ended its long period of commercial isolation, until 1921.
What is the difference between made in Japan and made in occupied Japan?
Not all products made in Japan between 1946 and April 1952 are marked “Made in Occupied Japan” or “Occupied Japan.” Some pieces simply were marked “Japan” or “Made in Japan.” However, collectors of Occupied Japan material insist that “Occupied” be found in the mark for an item to be considered a true Occupied Japan …
Are old tea cups and saucers worth anything?
Vintage teacups can be worth quite a lot! You’ll find them priced from $20-$100, even more if it is rare and in mint condition. My teacups were gifted to me by family or I purchased them myself anywhere from $4-$10.
Why do Chinese cups not have handles?
The reason why Chinese tea cups do not have handle/”ears” is that it forces the user to hold the cup. Hence: If it’s too hot to hold, it’s too hot to drink.
Why do tea cups have two handles?
Double-handled teacups are consommé or bouillon cups that a hostess uses to hold a light snack when tea is not filling enough as a beverage. The hostess uses these when she does not have the time or energy to bring down a soup tureen or bowls.
Why do Chinese drink from small cups?
Short steeps ensure the tea is still hot when poured, while small volumes allow the tea to cool quickly for drinking. In many ways, small pots simply allow for more precision in the brew, since the water is infused with flavor more quickly, and can be drained from the leaves all at once.