Japanese Silver Tea Set, Meiji Period (1868–1912)

A rare Japanese silver tea set from the Meiji period, crafted from high-quality silver with an exceptional level of sculptural finesse. The set consists of three pieces: a teapot with a movable arched handle and a curved spout, a sugar bowl with two handles and a lid, and a cream pitcher. All pieces are decorated with a rich relief motif of iris flowers—a major symbol in Japanese decorative art.

The floral design encircles the entire set, creating an organic and rhythmic effect. The lids are adorned with floral buds, extending the main motif in complete aesthetic harmony. The petals and stems are deeply embossed, accentuating the way light reflects off the silver’s surface.

The handles and spouts feature floral details that are perfectly integrated into the overall form, reflecting refined silversmithing craftsmanship. The interiors of the pieces are carefully polished.

Each piece bears two clearly visible hallmarks:
– 純銀 (jungin — pure silver),
– 有民 (Yūmin) — the signature of a master silversmith active in Tokyo or Yokohama in the late 19th century, specializing in handcrafted pieces for export.

A masterpiece of 19th-century Japanese silversmithing, combining technical precision, symbolism, and aesthetic balance.

Hallmarks:
純銀 (pure silver), 有民 (Yūmin)

Dimensions: Teapot: 10 × 10 cm; Sugar bowl: 10 × 10 cm; Creamer: 10 × 10 cm

Weight: Total: 1,296 g

Condition: Good condition with slight signs of use. Silver intact, deep relief, clear hallmarks. A fine example of Japanese silverwork from the late Meiji period.

Provenance: Private collection

ID-ANTQ-13319