Enhance your vintage collection with this exquisite 8-piece Japanese eggshell porcelain tea service for four.

This delicate set features 4 flat teacups and 4 matching saucers showcasing the traditional blue and white Phoenix Bird (Howo) or "Flying Turkey" motif, intricately rendered in a striking asymmetrical transferware pattern.

Crafted from exceptionally thin, translucent eggshell china that beautifully filters light, each piece feels weightless yet holds remarkable detail.

The undersides bear a crisp, standalone "Made in Japan" backstamp with no additional makers' marks, denoting mid-20th century export production.

Collector's Note (Literary History):
• The Legend of the Hō-ō: The asymmetrical design on this service features the mythical Hō-ō (the Japanese Phoenix). In classical Eastern literary folklore, this legendary bird represents grace and virtue, descending from the heavens exclusively during times of peace and enlightened rule.
• The Empress's Symbol: While the Dragon historically represented the Emperor, the elegant, flowing Hō-ō served as the personal emblem of the Empress.
• The Sacred Paulownia: The asymmetrical layout depicts the bird sweeping through stylized foliage and dense clouds. This foliage represents the sacred Paulownia tree (Kiri). Tradition dictates that the noble Hō-ō is so selective that it refuses to land on ordinary branches, choosing to perch only within the canopy of the Paulownia.

This delicate set is perfect for collectors of fine Asian heritage tableware or mid-century transferware.

Date: Circa 1930s – 1950s (Pre-to-post WWII export era).

Condition: Good vintage condition with age appropriate crazing and some very small chipping on the saucer base rims.

Please review all photos as they are part of the description.

Your order will be packed with extreme care in heavy bubble wrap padding and double boxed in sturdy boxes to ensure safe transport and delivery to your home.