Vintage Noritake Teacups - Set of 5
Vintage, mid-century Noritake porcelain Teacups, packaged in a wooden box. In Japan, this is known as the Showa Retro period. The style is that of yunomi (湯のみ) - a traditional Japanese teacup with no ear, used for everyday tea drinking. The cups are identical and each cup features three different floral designs on the outer side - they are visible one by one when the cup is turned.
The particular design was produced for the Japanese domestic market, between the 1950s to early 1970s. This was a transitional period when Noritake still used the "Nippon Tōki" name and hadn't yet shifted fully to international branding on domestic ware. The name stamp on the bottom of each cup reads:
- のりたけ — Noritake
- 日本陶器 — "Nippon Tōki" or “Japan Ceramics,” referencing Nippon Tōki Kaisha, the original name of the Noritake company
The set was held in long-term storage and the teacups are unused. The wooden box shows signs of age and deterioration.
- Contents: 5 Noritake teacups
- Packaging: Original wooden box
- Condition: Unused, with the box showing its age.
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Noritake is a renowned Japanese ceramics and tableware manufacturer, established in 1904 by the Morimura Brothers in Nagoya, Japan. Originally founded to produce Western-style dinnerware for export, Noritake quickly gained international acclaim for its high-quality porcelain and elegant hand-painted designs. By the early 20th century, Noritake had become a symbol of fine craftsmanship and innovation in porcelain production, blending traditional Japanese artistry with Western aesthetics.
The company expanded globally, especially in the U.S. and European markets, and its products were often regarded as luxury items. Noritake’s catalogue has included a wide range of items, from formal dinner sets and tea services to more modern and casual designs in later years. The brand continues to thrive today, producing both traditional and contemporary tableware.