Vtg Arita Ware Signed KYO Yokode Teapot & 5 Cups Japanese Porcelain Boxed For Sale

This Arita Ware tea set is a refined example of Japanese porcelain craftsmanship, produced in Japan and rooted in the long ceramic tradition of the former Hizen Province. The set includes one yokode (side-handled) teapot and five matching tea cups, all hand-painted with a soft, elegant floral motif and finished with a smooth, high-quality glaze.

Each cup is individually marked on the base with a hand-applied blue underglaze signature reading “KYO.” The consistency of the marking across all pieces indicates artist or studio attribution rather than a random export or factory code. The teapot and cups are well balanced, evenly glazed, and show crisp edges and clean bases, consistent with careful production rather than mass-market ware.

The set remains unused and is housed in its original presentation box. The box retains its original Japan label with product numbering, consistent with Japanese domestic retail packaging from the mid-to-late 20th century rather than later reproduction packaging. Overall condition is excellent, with no chips, cracks, staining, repairs, or signs of prior use noted.

Backstory: This set was acquired at an estate sale in North Dakota and was described as a gift presented to the original owner’s mother in appreciation for her years managing a downtown porcelain shop. While this history cannot be independently verified, the condition and preserved presentation of the set are consistent with that account.

Condition

New (unused). Original box included.

Set Includes

1 Yokode teapot

5 matching tea cups

Original presentation box

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