A matching Satsuma teacup and saucer set


By Ryokuzan, Meiji era (1868-1912), late 19th/early 20th centuryDecorated in enamels and gilt, the interior of the teacup painted with numerous minute butterflies enclosed within three spiraling comma-shaped cartouches separated by sprays of autumnal flowers, consisting of pinks, wild chrysanthemum and Chinese bellflowers, the exterior painted with white sagi (egrets) standing among the stalks of irises beneath trailing purple wisteria, signed on the base Ryokuzan, 4.5cm x 11.5cm (1¾in x 4½in); the saucer similarly decorated, signed Ryokuzan on the base, 14cm (5½in) diam. (2).