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 A writer from Dahlgren has sent in this photograph of a Japanese tea service which she purchased from a lady at her church. She comments that she thought it was too pretty to let it pass to someone who might not care for it. On the bottom of the teapot is a hall mark stating “Hand Paint” and “Japan”, along with the letter “T.”
This tea set dates from the pre-war period, that is the 1920s and 1930s, when the Japanese manufacturers were trying to supply the American and European markets with wares as good as those made domestically in those countries. Here the motif is typical of English china of the nineteenth century, with gold banding and floral decoration. Without checking the hallmark, one would assume that the pieces were English, precisely what the Japanese wanted.
English tea customs were quite different from those of Japan. In this instance the Japanese had no desire to promote their version, but rather were trying to show that they could produce china of the finest quality, comparable to anything made in the West. The “T” indicates the maker’s logo.
Fortunately, this set has remained together, not often the case, which enhances its value far in excess of what the pieces would be worth individually. Given the superior quality and fine condition of these pieces the set is worth $150, and possibly more to collectors anxious to seize it as a prize.
Japanese china has grown in popularity over the last half century. Good pre-war items such as this tea service have an excellent market, as do the later “Made in Occupied Japan” pieces. I might add that unlike its English Staffordshire cousins, this china is almost certainly lead-free, and can be used without fear. Writing this item is making me thirsty for a good cup of tea.
Happy Antiquing!
Lisa and Henry Lane Hull operate Commonwealth Antiques and Appraisals, Inc. at 5150 Jessie DuPont Hwy. (P. O. 35) Wicomico Church, Virginia 22570. Write to him there, or by email at
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with pictures and descriptions of items you wish to have him treat in “Antiques Considered.”
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