Hi George,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Takito porcelain and ceramics objects were produced by the Takito Company in Japan, which was founded in Nagoya, Japan in the late 19th Century and active until the 1940s. It is especially known for its iridescent, shimmering finishes known as lustre glazes, which were ideal for displaying the western Art Deco aesthetic. These pieces were primarily made for export—especially to the United States and Europe—from the late 19th century through World War II. It competed with companies such as Noritake and Morimura (which itself was eventually absorbed into Noritake) but is found with much less frequency.

Tea sets hold importance for various cultural, historical, and practical reasons. They have been a symbol of hospitality, refinement, and tradition across different cultures, often representing more than just tools for serving tea. Offering tea is a universal gesture of hospitality and warmth. A beautiful tea set such as this enhances this experience and reflects the host's care and attention to detail.
Regrettably, we're living in an age where increasingly fewer people "have friends over for tea", and the preferred method of drinking coffee is usually on-the-go, from paper or Styrofoam cups or metal carafes. I personally think it would be wonderful to bring back the custom of having some quiet time in the afternoon around a beautiful set such as the one you have.

Tea sets that include plates in addition to saucers are referred to as DESSERT services, with plates for different kinds of dessert.

Because of it's rarity, Takito pieces usually sells at auction for prices ranging from $6 and $9 per piece (note that Noritake usually sells for between $4 and $6 per piece).

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A vintage 15-piece Art Deco style porcelain tea set for six
In the "Thousand Faces" pattern, made in Japan by Takito, circa 1930s-40s, comprising:
1 tea pot
1 cream pitcher
1 covered sugar bowl
6 tea cups with
6 saucers
CONDITION: This set appears to be in good condition.
PROVENANCE: Acquired at auction
$ 90-135*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia