A striking example of Japanese export porcelain at its most exuberant — this faceted teapot showcases the lavish decorative vocabulary that made Meiji-era ceramics irresistible to Western collectors. The octagonal body is painted in polychrome overglaze enamels on a warm cream ground, featuring the beloved chrysanthemum (kiku) rendered in delicate white and gold, paired with bold iron-red brocade panels and sinuous gilt scrollwork that winds across every surface.

The shaped lid echoes the body’s scalloped form and is crowned with a charming blossom or butterfly finial in white porcelain — a graceful finishing touch. Interior surfaces reveal the warm ivory glaze typical of quality Meiji export ware.

The base bears a distinctive crossed flags mark in underglaze blue — a rectangular flag with a central circle alongside a pennant bearing a rampant lion — used by Meiji-era manufacturers exporting to Western markets, particularly Britain. An additional hand-painted workshop or painter’s mark appears in gold below.

Please note: There is a chip at the spout tip, clearly shown in photos. This piece is priced accordingly and makes a beautiful display piece or addition to a collection of Asian export porcelain.

• Origin: Japan

• Style: Kutani export porcelain

• Period: Meiji era, circa 1880–1910

• Mark: Crossed flags (blue underglaze) + painted workshop mark

• Condition: Good display condition; chip at spout tip as shown

A century of beauty — a little worn at the lip, but full of story.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​