COFFEE CUP AND SAUCER “GOLDEN CHRYSANTHEMUMS” IN THE KINRANDE STYLE

saucer diameter c. 14 cm, cup height c. 7 cm.

An exclusive collector's cup-and-saucer set, issued in a limited edition for a premium Japanese campaign, “Nescafe Gold Blend — A Gift from the Living National Treasures”. The set is made of thin-walled, pure white porcelain. The surface is covered with a noble coral-red akae pigment, over which the finest hand painting in gold leaf has been applied in the KinrandeKinsai / Kinrande 金彩 / 金襴手 — a refined technique of hand-gilding ceramics and porcelain with gold leaf or liquid gold pigment, followed by a fixing firing. (“golden brocade”) technique. The principal subject is the imperial emblem — blooming kiku chrysanthemums, symbolising longevity and prosperity. The handle of the cup is entirely gilded.

The piece has an outstanding provenance and a complete, auction-grade set of accompaniments. It is offered in a rare type of elaborate tiered paulownia-wood box — a “Subako” (nested box), fitted with an internal dividing shelf. Two original inserts from the Kobei-gama manufactory (including the warranty card) are preserved, together with an official letter of congratulation from the management of Nestle Japan Co., Ltd. The piece is of museum quality and in perfect condition.

The flat base of the cup and the reverse of the saucer bear the artist's mark in gold in a square frame — the character “洋” (Yo — Koyo). The lid of the box bears ink calligraphy and a seal impression.