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Hello,

This cup was brought to germany by my grand father in 1937/38.
I'm trying to find out who made it,when, and were its from.

Please help me,

Maarten

This kind of "Moriage" slip-painted decoration indicates your teacup & saucer were made in Japan. In 1936, Germany and Japan concluded their agreement to oppose the Soviet-sponsored Comintern (Communist International), effectively becoming partners in what by 1940 had emerged as the Germany-led Berlin-Tokyo-Rome Axis of World War II. I believe Germany tried to take up some of the slack in ceramics and other trade with Japan that was lost during that period when the US, UK and other Allies cut ties to Axis countries.

As best I can tell, the Japanese character mark 志 reads "Kokoro" (こころざ), which has a literal meaning of "Will" or "Aspiration" and sometimes can be a given name. Using Google searches, I found some mention of Kokoro ceramics and teapots, however none of the hits included any kanji references or photos of marks.

If it will help you assess value, nowadays a complete late 1930's Moriage tea service of average quality having five to six cups & saucers, a pot, the creamer and a sugar dish would sell for upwards of US$250 if in good condition.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Thanks Bill,

With this information i can search further.

Thank you

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