Fruit and Nut Decorative Tea Cup and Saucer
Decorative art, Ceramic tableware • Likely European manufacturer (such as Royal Worcester, Limoges, or a Bavarian factory like Hutschenreuther)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Traditional / Neo-Classical Decorative Style
Medium & Technique
Hard-paste porcelain with polychrome transfer-printed or hand-painted botanical motifs and hand-applied gilt (gold) rims
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th Century (circa 1950–1980)
Dimensions & Format
Standard tea cup and saucer; cup approx. 2.5-3 inches high, saucer approx. 5-6 inches diameter
Subject Description
Botanical illustration featuring autumn fruits and nuts, including hazelnuts, autumn leaves, and possibly a pear or peach. The composition uses warm earth tones and a gilded border for a refined, classical aesthetic.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; minor wear to the gilding on the handle and rim edges consistent with age and use
Estimated Market Value
US $15.00 - $35.00 for the single set
Auction Estimate
US $10.00 - $25.00
Provenance History
Likely part of a residential collection; mass-produced commercial porcelain common in high-end mid-century department stores
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the 20th-century revival of 18th-century botanical painting traditions for domestic use. It reflects the post-war demand for traditional luxury aesthetics in middle-class households.
Notable Features
High-quality heavy gilding on the interior rim and handle; use of naturalistic botanical themes that emulate the 'Worcester Fruit' style.
Condition Issues
Slight gilding loss on the handle and inner rim; faint surface scratches on the saucer center from cup contact; no visible chips or cracks
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild soap to preserve gilt; avoid abrasive sponges and microwave use to prevent metallic arcing and further gold loss.