Antique Japanese Imari Porcelain Cup

The handpainting on this vintage Imari Japanese teacup is beautifully intricate and artfully executed. The colors are the traditional blues and reds with gold and green accents. I have heard these early Imari cups referred to as sobo-choko, which I guess refers to how they were used with sobo noodles and broth. The earliest ones are done in just blue and white, the decoration all being done in blue underglaze. This one has the inside and foot done in that fashion, but the outside of this is handpainted in traditional Imari colors with scenes of 2 grey cranes flying on two sides and the red medallion with lotus design on two sides. It also depicts the Japanese countryside with pine branches and a stylyzed depiction of water.  This piece dates to the second half of the 19th century and was produced in Japan for use in more affluent Japanese homes. Beautiful example of early Imari porcelain.It remains in excellent  shape with no chips, cracks or crazing.