Vintage Blue & White Porcelain Dragon Tea Service – Japan

Elegant blue and white porcelain tea service featuring the timeless Four Dragons Chasing the Flaming Pearl motif, a design deeply rooted in East Asian ceramic tradition. Each piece is decorated in rich cobalt blue against a luminous white porcelain ground, with dragons rendered in dynamic movement around the symbolic pearl of wisdom and power.

The vessels are further framed by a bold geometric border along the rim, creating a striking contrast between the structured pattern and the fluid, mythological imagery. The dragons—long revered as emblems of strength, protection, and imperial authority—are depicted in classical form with flowing whiskers, scaled bodies, and clawed feet.

The undersides bear the mark 日本 (Nihon / Japan), indicating production for export. During the mid-20th century, Japanese porcelain workshops produced finely crafted blue-and-white wares inspired by historic Chinese imperial designs, continuing a centuries-old aesthetic tradition.

Set Includes

• One handled sugar bowl

• Six teacups

• Six matching saucers

Design

• Blue & white porcelain

• Four dragons surrounding the flaming pearl

• Geometric chevron rim border

• Underglaze cobalt decoration

• Marked Japan (日本) on the base

Condition

Very good vintage condition. The glaze remains glossy and vibrant with only minor manufacturing variations typical of porcelain produced in traditional kilns.

Period

Mid-20th century

Origin

Japan