Item Description Antique Japanese Kutani Ware Pair of Sake Cups (Sakazuki) with Shunga Decoration — Original Wooden Box, Meiji–Taishō Period (c. 1900–1930) A rare and highly collectible pair of small Kutani ware sake cups (sakazuki), presented in their original wooden storage box (tomobako) inscribed "九谷 盃" (Kutani Sakazuki). The two cups are subtly different in shape — one with a slightly more flared rim, the other more rounded — suggesting they may have been individually crafted rather than mass-produced, adding to their artistic character and charm. The decoration employs a classic double-face scheme that was a hallmark of the finest Japanese sake ware: the interiors are painted in refined polychrome enamel with graceful botanical subjects — one cup with autumn grasses , the other with a full peony (botan) in pink and red with gold-rimmed borders — both on pure white porcelain ground with gold rim accents. The exteriors, by contrast, are painted on a warm, aged-ivory crème ground (nishiki style) with intimate figural scenes in the tradition of shunga (春画 — "spring pictures"), the classical Japanese erotic art genre. The compositions depict pairs of figures in richly patterned robes with gold and polychrome enamel detail, executed with considerable painterly skill and delicacy. A small impressed seal mark (hanko) is visible on the exterior of one cup. Shunga-decorated ceramics of this type — particularly sake cups where the outer surface concealed the intimate decoration from casual view — were produced during the Meiji and Taishō periods as highly prized private gifts and collectibles, often of fine quality. The combination of elegant botanical interiors with shunga exteriors reflects the sophisticated aesthetic duality of the period: refined and restrained in public display, intensely personal in private use. This set is a genuine antique rarity seldom found in such complete and presentable condition. Size Height: 2.7 cm (per cup) Diameter: 5.0 cm (per cup) Weight 36 g (per cup) Condition Both cups are in good antique condition with light age-related patina and minor surface soiling consistent with age; no chips, cracks, or repairs. The wooden box shows natural age-related wear. Gold rim shows minor wear consistent with age. NOITICE: The photos may show flowers, plants, pedestals, etc. as examples of decorations and interior design for illustrative purposes, but please note that these are not included in the product. The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by DHL , FedEx or Japan Post depend on the situation. It takes about 10 Days to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customs or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to us and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. We do appreciate for your kind cooperation.