Japanese Blue and White Porcelain Tea Cups

This pair is decorated in underglaze blue featuring a classic theme that originated in China. The karako (Chinese children) motif typically features either 3 or 5 boys chasing butterflies. The marking on the foot is thought to be that of the Kawazoe Seizan kiln. The cups date from the mid to late 20th century. They measure 3.5 inches in height and 2.5 inches diameter. There is a very small nick on the rim of one cup. There are no other cracks or chips.