– Three graduated lacquerware cups (sakazuki) with gold and silver maki-e decoration –朱漆 (shu-urushi) red lacquer base with chrysanthemum and pine needle designs – Elegant drinking set for ceremonial occasions, total weight 56 grams Summary: This charming set comprises three nested sake cups in traditional Japanese lacquerware, dating likely to the Showa era (1926–1989). Each cup features red lacquer (shu-urushi) decorated with gold and silver maki-e depicting chrysanthemums and pine needles—both auspicious motifs in Japanese culture. The largest cup measures approximately 10.9 cm in diameter, with the set nesting compactly for storage. These represent excellent examples of mid-twentieth-century lacquer craft, offering both decorative appeal and functional beauty for special occasions. Certain objects carry weight beyond their physical presence. These three lacquer cups—lightweight at just 56 grams combined—nevertheless bring centuries of Japanese drinking ritual into contemporary hands. The nested format, called kasane-sakazuki, speaks to practical elegance: three cups stored as one, each emerging for progressive toasts during celebrations. Japanese lacquerware (urushi) traces lineage back over seven millennia, making it one of humanity's oldest continuously practised crafts. By the Showa period, when these cups were likely created, lacquer production had evolved from exclusive court patronage to include refined pieces for the growing middle class. These cups occupy that sweet spot—clearly hand-decorated with skill, yet approachable rather than intimidatingly precious. The red lacquer base (shu-urushi) results from mixing raw urushi sap with cinnabar or iron oxide pigments. Red lacquer carries specific cultural resonance in Japan, associated with celebration, protection against evil spirits, and formal occasions. The colour's warmth provides ideal contrast for the maki-e decoration, a technique where gold and silver powders are sprinkled onto wet lacquer, then covered with transparent top coats once dry. Look closely at the motifs: chrysanthemums (kiku) and pine needles (matsu). The chrysanthemum holds imperial associations—the sixteen-petaled version appears on Japan's imperial seal—whilst generally symbolising longevity and rejuvenation. Pine represents steadfastness and endurance, remaining green through winter's harshness. Together, these motifs create a visual language of celebration and resilience, making the cups appropriate for milestone occasions: New Year's toasts, wedding celebrations, or seasonal festivals. The three-cup format follows established hierarchy in Japanese drinking culture. Traditionally, sake would be poured starting with the largest cup, progressing to smaller sizes as the evening advanced—or alternatively, the cups might serve different participants based on seniority. This ritualized approach to drinking transforms alcohol consumption into structured social exchange, where the vessel itself communicates respect and occasion. For European collectors, these cups offer intriguing display possibilities. Nested together, they form a compact sculptural object with concentric circles of red and gold. Separated, they can be arranged on shelves or in glass-fronted cabinets, their different sizes creating visual rhythm. The red lacquer provides bold colour without garishness, working surprisingly well against both traditional dark woods and contemporary white or grey backgrounds. Condition appears good with light wear consistent with age—perhaps some minor surface marks visible in certain lights, but the lacquer remains intact and the maki-e decoration retains its metallic lustre. Such pieces develop character through gentle use and careful storage, the lacquer deepening in tone over decades. These cups represent accessible entry into Japanese lacquerware collecting. Whilst museum-quality pieces by named artists command significant prices, well-executed Showa-era examples like these offer considerable charm and cultural authenticity without requiring specialist-level investment. They function equally well as decorative objects or as conversation pieces during intimate gatherings where someone might actually pour sake and make a toast. The inclusion of a wooden storage box (kiri-bako) adds both protection and presentation value, following Japanese tradition of housing precious objects in purpose-made containers. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese lacquerware and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome—we reply within 24 hours. 1217