Title: Japanese Kutani Ware Polychrome Bird & Flower Sake Cup (also for Tea) by Chikugen (竹轩) Kiln: Kutani Ware (九谷焼), Aote (青手) style Artist: Chikugen (竹轩) Dimensions: H 3.2 × DIA 5.9 cm (1.3 × 2.3 in) Weight: 39.6 g Box Dimensions: H 5.5 × W 7.7 × D 7.7 cm (2.2 × 3.0 × 3.0 in) Material: High-fired ceramic Period: Taishō to Early Shōwa Period, c. 1930-1940 This is a fine Kutani Ware (九谷焼) high-footed sake cup (also suitable as a small tea cup) in the Aoki Mokubei (青木木米) style, by the Kutani artist Chikugen (竹轩). Kutani Ware, established in the Edo period, is one of Japan's four great traditional painted ceramic traditions, renowned for its rich polychrome enamels and exquisite hand-painting. The Aote (青手) style is a classic Kutani glaze type, and works in the Aoki Mokubei style are a celebrated tradition in Kutani ceramic heritage. The exterior is decorated with underglaze red leaf and scroll motifs on a white ground, the design simple and elegant, the glaze warm and lustrous. The interior is finely hand-painted in the traditional five-colour Kutani palette with a bird and peony design: a bird perches gracefully on a flowering branch, the peonies in full bloom, the composition vivid and dynamic, the colours rich and striking, the brushwork precise and fluid. The rim is decorated with a geometric border in the classic Aoki Mokubei style, demonstrating masterful craftsmanship. This is a traditional Japanese vessel suitable for both sake and sencha tea. The base bears the underglaze blue artist's seal "Chikugen" (竹轩), the standard mark of the Chikugen kiln. The compact form fits perfectly in the palm, making it a delightful objet d'art for handling, display and collection. Natural age patina and signs of use consistent with period. Colours remain intact, the glaze warm and lustrous. Complete with original paulownia tomobako (共箱) storage box and deep blue silk cloth. Overall good condition. Shipping Notice Due to service adjustments, Taiwan Post EMS will suspend parcel deliveries to the following countries effective March 10, 2026: United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel, Pakistan, Maldives, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Greece, Egypt, Morocco. Bidders located in the above regions are kindly requested not to place bids. Note: Delivery to Italy takes approximately 6–7 days. Customs or the courier may contact you for customs clearance. Kindly reply promptly, as delays may result in the package being returned. Contacting them directly can help speed up the process: dogane.malpensa.urp@agenziadogane.it Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. - The picture is part of the description. The color of the item may be slightly different from the picture (due to camera and screen settings). - The successful bidder will be responsible for any customs duties and taxes (if applicable). - This item will be mailed by the postal service of Taiwan in the form of airmail with insurance attached.