Kanuemon - Setei Kiln - ティーカップ - Ceramic - 伊万里焼・鍋島焼

Maker: Setei Kiln, Kanuemon (Ookawachiyama, Imari)
Title: Pair of Lidded Teacups (Futatsuki Yunomi) — Nabeshima / Imari Ware, Deep Green Glaze with Gold Maple-Leaf Design, in Original Wooden Box

This is a matched pair of lidded Japanese teacups in the Nabeshima / Imari tradition, made by the Kanuemon kiln (Setei-gama) of Ookawachiyama in Imari, Saga. Each cup is covered in a rich, jewel-like green glaze and decorated with gold and colored maple leaves (momiji), and comes with a matching lid. The set is presented in its original signed wooden box with the kiln's printed certificate.

About the Tradition — Nabeshima and Imari
Nabeshima ware is regarded as the finest porcelain ever produced in Japan. During the Edo period, the Saga (Nabeshima) domain operated a secret official kiln at Ookawachiyama, a valley enclosed by steep mountains where the domain guarded its techniques and produced the highest-quality porcelain exclusively as gifts for the Shogunate and feudal lords — never for ordinary sale. These wares, shipped from the port of Imari, are known internationally within the broader "Imari ware" family. Though the domain kiln closed in 1871, its traditions have been carried on by the kilns that remain in Ookawachiyama today.

About the Kiln
The Kanuemon kiln (Setei-gama) is one of the historic kilns of Ookawachiyama that inherits the proud lineage of the old Nabeshima domain kiln, combining that heritage with a contemporary sensibility in its work. This piece reflects that approach: rooted in the Nabeshima tradition, yet modern in its bold color and design.

About the Design
Rather than the classic three-color overglaze style, these cups take a striking contemporary approach — an all-over deep green glaze of great depth and clarity, over which maple leaves are rendered in gold and soft autumnal tones. The result is elegant and seasonal, evoking Japanese autumn foliage against a vivid green ground. The domed lids help retain warmth and aroma, a refined touch associated with quality Japanese teaware.

Set Includes
Two lidded teacups (cup + lid, matched pair), original wooden box, and the kiln's printed certificate.

Condition
[Describe condition honestly here — e.g. In excellent condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs. Please review all photos, which form part of the description.]

Appeal
Lidded teacups of this kind are prized for serving green tea to guests, and this pair is equally suited to everyday use, a special gift, or display. It will appeal to collectors of Japanese porcelain, Imari and Nabeshima ware enthusiasts, and lovers of refined Japanese tableware.

Shipping from Japan with tracking number and insurance. Fast dispatch via FedEx or DHL.
Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges and are the buyer's responsibility. These are normally collected by the delivering carrier or on pickup — please do not confuse them with additional shipping charges.