Minton Kakiemon Tiger Decorated Tea Set, 1847–1861

An attractive mid-Victorian Minton porcelain tea set decorated in the Japanese Kakiemon manner with a stylised tiger among bamboo and peony blossoms and a waterfall. The palette combines ochre red, cobalt and royal blues, bright greens and black, finished with gilt. Saucers carry the full scene; cups repeat the exterior motif and include a painted floral spray inside with gilded rims. The matching cream jug has a moulded scroll handle and foot. Minton was one of the pioneering companies in English porcelain production, established in Staffordshire in the late 18th century, and quickly gained fame for its wonderfully fine white bone china and brilliant enamels. Saucers dated by impressed marks: horseshoe for 1853 (five) and three radiating lines for 1861 (five). Cups include earlier dates down to 1847. Cream jug unmarked, as is common for this period. A very fine and rare Minton Kakiemon tiger-decorated tea set, perfect for the serious collector of English porcelain.

Measurements:

Saucers, 10 pcs: diameter 14.8 cm, height 2.8 cm, weight c. 180 g each

Teacups, 6 pcs: height 5.5 cm, diameter 9.5 cm, width with handle 12 cm, weight c. 118 g each, capacity c. 180 ml

Cream jug: height 12.5 cm, width 15 cm, depth 11.5 cm, weight 263 g, capacity c. 300 ml

Condition:

Saucers: one 1861 saucer with a fine hairline to the centre of the well, and one 1853 saucer with a star hairline to the centre of the well; otherwise the saucers are in brilliant condition, with colors and enamels perfectly preserved and only minimal, barely visible rubbing to the gilding in a few places.

Cups: one with a fine hairline to the side; one with a crack at the lower handle terminal; one with a small firing hairline at the handle join; the remainder excellent with bright enamels and light rim gilding wear.

Cream jug: excellent antique condition, no chips or repairs, bright enamels and gilding very well preserved.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.