Japanese Export Silver-Plated Spoon Set with Delft-Style Blue and White Ceramic Inserts and Repoussé Sailing Ship Boxes
Flatware and Decorative Objects (Set of Spoons in Embossed Presentation Boxes) · Unknown Japanese or Asian Export Manufacturer, likely mid-20th century souvenir or tourist trade producer
Pattern: Maritime/Sailing Ship Theme with Delft-Style Blue and White Ceramic Accents
Type
Flatware and Decorative Objects (Set of Spoons in Embossed Presentation Boxes)
Maker
Unknown Japanese or Asian Export Manufacturer, likely mid-20th century souvenir or tourist trade producer
Material
Silver-plated base metal (likely brass, copper, or nickel silver alloy) with ceramic handle inserts; presentation boxes feature embossed silver-colored metal foil over rigid cores
Dimensions
Standard demitasse or teaspoon size, approximately 4 to 5 inches (10-13 cm) per spoon; boxes measure approximately 6x4 inches
Description
An attractive and highly decorative matching pair of boxed spoon sets accompanied by heavily embossed metal-topped presentation boxes. Each box lid depicts a dramatic maritime scene with sailing ships in high-relief repoussé work. Inside, rows of small spoons feature elaborate handles accented with distinctive blue and white ceramic medallions, blending classic European Delft-style motifs with Asian export metalwork craftsmanship.
Key Features
Matched pairs of boxed spoon sets; dramatic sailing ship motif lids; distinctive blue and white ceramic handle inlays; complete original presentation boxes
Material & Composition
Silver-plated base metal (likely brass, copper, or nickel silver alloy) with ceramic handle inserts; presentation boxes feature embossed silver-colored metal foil over rigid cores
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish on spoon bowls with heavily detailed, textured handles featuring blue and white ceramic cabochons; presentation boxes decorated with high-relief repoussé or stamped sailing ships and coastal scenes
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in image, likely stamped with 'Made in Japan' or 'EP' (Electro-Plated) typical of mid-century Asian export tourist novelties
Construction Details
Mass-produced die-struck spoon bowls with cast or assembled decorative handles featuring fitted ceramic inserts; presentation boxes utilize stamped thin metallic sheet over a structured substrate
Functional Features
Designed as demitasse or condiment spoons, primarily serving as decorative display sets or souvenir collections rather than heavy everyday use flatware
Handle & Grip Details
Ornate silver-plated handles featuring figural or scrollwork designs inset with small, glazed ceramic cabochons decorated in blue and white transferware style
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-assisted stamping and casting typical of mid-century novelty production; decorative relief work on the box lids is crisp but industrial in execution rather than hand-chased
Authentication Indicators
Typical construction, weight, and decorative motifs of mid-20th-century Japanese export novelties; lack of traditional precious metal hallmarks strongly indicates silver-plate over base metal
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Japan for the international export and souvenir market during the post-WWII occupation and subsequent decades
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Post-War Tourist Souvenir Era (c. 1950s-1970s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975, based on the packaging style, manufacturing materials, and popular tourist souvenir aesthetics of the mid-20th century
Cultural Significance
Reflects the mid-century global tourism boom and the cross-cultural exchange of design motifs, combining European maritime themes and ceramic styles with Asian manufacturing capabilities
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good vintage condition with minor tarnish and age-related patina on the silver-plated surfaces; boxes show standard light storage wear along the edges
Value Estimate
Estimated market value ranges between $25 and $75 USD depending on the specific metal content, completeness, and collector demand for mid-century tourist ephemera
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid harsh silver dips as they may strip the thin silver plating or damage the ceramic inserts; store in a dry environment to prevent base metal oxidation
Similar Pieces
Japanese or Hong Kong export souvenir spoon sets, Dutch silver-plated souvenir spoons with windmill or ship finials, and various mid-century tourist boxed flatware collections
Interesting Facts
Items of this nature were extremely popular post-WWII souvenirs brought back by American servicemen stationed abroad or international travelers touring Asia and Europe