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Beautiful set of two Japanese Arita white porcelain covered bowls used in traditional kaiseki dining for steamed or lidded dishes and five matching tea cups. Each bowl and cup feature subtle incised floral decoration as well as the lids. The set comes in the original signed kiri (paulownia) wood box with brush calligraphy identifying the contents and a red kiln seal mark to the side. Bases of the two rice bowls are marked in blue underglaze with 七石 (Nanase / “Seven Stones”), indicating the pattern or kiln series.
These elegant bowls and cups display the refined minimalist aesthetic Arita is known for and would be suitable for table service, tea/kai-seki collectors, or display. Comparable sets were commonly purchased in department stores as wedding gifts or for ryokan guest hospitality during the mid 20th century.
Measurements (approx.)
Since this set is a traditional wedding gift, one of the rice bowls and lid are slightly larger than the other bowl. The larger bowl stands 2.25” tall excluding lid. Its diameter is 4.5”. The smaller rice bowls stands 2” tall and its diameter is 4 3/8”. The tea cups stand 2” tall with a diameter of 3.5”.
Condition Notes
Very clean and well preserved. No cracks, chips, or repairs observed. Box shows minor storage wear and tape residue. Lids and bowls fit correctly and glaze remains bright. They have not been used.
Provenance
Estate pieces from family member with extensive travels to Japan during the mid-20th century. Stored in original box.
Item Specifics
• Origin: Japan
• Region/Style: Arita (white porcelain / hakuji)
• Type: Covered bowls (futatsuki wan / kaiseki service)
• Pattern/Mark: 七石 (Nanase / “Seven Stones”)
• Material: Porcelain
• Color: White (incised floral decoration)
• Era: Shōwa period (likely 1960s–1980s)
• Quantity: Set of 2 bowls with matching lids and 5 tea cups.
• Box: Original signed kiri (paulownia wood) storage box with kiln seal
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition
• Markings: Blue underglaze 七石 to base of each piece
