Category: Ceramics, Porcelain & Glass

Nippon China: A Legacy of Japanese Craftsmanship – Set of Nippon Chocolate Pot with Four (4) Cups and Saucers

Posted on by forestmetrics

Nippon China refers to fine porcelain and ceramics produced in Japan between 1891 and 1921, a period when export goods were marked “Nippon,” the Japanese word for Japan. These elegant pieces were created primarily for Western markets, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, delicate hand-painted designs, and vibrant colors that reflected both Japanese artistry and Western tastes.

BUY IT NOW! Gorgeous colorful piece of Nippon porcelain. Hand-painted with gold gilding and white enamel. Manufacturer’s mark, “Made in Japan.” Approximate dimensions: CHOCOLATE POT with lid: 5 1/8″ (max diameter) x 9 1/2″ (total height); CUPS: 2 1/2″ (max diameter), 3 1/4″ (max diameter with handle) x 2 3/4″ (height); SAUCER: 5″ (max diameter). c. antique or vintage. Made in Japan.

During this era, Nippon China was produced by several renowned companies, including Noritake, Morimura Brothers, and others. The wares ranged from ornate vases and tea sets to intricate figurines and tableware. Common decorative styles included raised gold moriage, scenic landscapes, florals, and elaborate gilding, often highlighted by soft pastel glazes or deep cobalt blues.

After 1921, U.S. import regulations required goods from Japan to be marked “Japan” or “Made in Japan,” officially ending the “Nippon” mark era. Today, genuine Nippon-marked pieces are highly collectible, valued for their beauty, historical significance, and the exceptional skill of the artisans who created them.

Collectors seek authentic markings and hand-painted quality when identifying true Nippon China, making each piece not just a functional item, but a cherished symbol of Japan’s cultural exchange and enduring artistic tradition.

Antique Chocolate Pots: Elegant Remnants of a Sweet Tradition

Antique chocolate pots are beautiful relics from a bygone era when drinking chocolate was a luxurious ritual rather than an everyday indulgence. Originating in Europe during the 17th century, these elegant vessels were designed specifically for preparing and serving hot chocolate—a fashionable beverage enjoyed by the wealthy.

Unlike teapots or coffee pots, chocolate pots were crafted with distinct features. Most notably, they often included a hinged or removable lid with a hole for a wooden or metal whisk, called a “molinillo” or “muddler,” used to froth the chocolate mixture before serving. Their graceful spouts and ornate handles were designed for both function and beauty, often reflecting the artistry of the silversmiths or porcelain makers who produced them.

Materials ranged from silver and pewter to fine porcelain, with famous manufacturers like Limoges, Meissen, and Royal Vienna creating stunning examples. Many were richly decorated with gilding, hand-painted florals, or romantic scenes, making them both utilitarian and decorative.

Today, antique chocolate pots are prized collectibles. They offer a glimpse into historical dining customs and the evolution of European craftsmanship, serving as elegant reminders of how something as simple as a cup of chocolate once symbolized refinement, comfort, and social prestige.




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Amberina Glass: A Glowing Reflection of 19th-Century Innovation – Red and Yellow Glass Compote with Ruffle Top and Daisy and Button Pattern

Posted on by forestmetrics

Amberina glass is a stunning art glass known for its distinctive color gradient, transitioning smoothly from deep red at the top to rich amber or golden yellow at the base. First developed in the late 19th century by the New England Glass Company around 1883, this unique glass became a symbol of American creativity and craftsmanship during the Victorian era.

BUY IT NOW! Gorgeous two tone glass compote with brilliant fiery red and yellow color. Very large and wide bowl. Great showy serving piece for a party or display. Approximate dimensions: 12″ (diameter) x 8″ (height). c vintage. Unknown origin.

The signature color effect of Amberina was achieved through precise control of heat and metallic oxides—particularly gold—during the glassmaking process. When reheated, the glass would shift in hue, creating the warm, glowing two-tone effect that collectors admire today. Each piece required great skill, as the delicate transition depended on the artisan’s timing and mastery of temperature.

Amberina glass was used to craft a variety of items, including vases, pitchers, tumblers, and lamps. Its radiant beauty made it a popular choice for both decorative and functional household objects. Later, similar styles such as Blue Amberina and Reverse Amberina emerged, reflecting continued experimentation in color and design.

Today, authentic Amberina pieces are highly collectible, treasured for their historical significance and mesmerizing beauty—a perfect marriage of science, art, and the timeless allure of glowing glass.

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