This is a matching pair of vintage Blue Willow double egg cups, made in Japan between the 1950s and 1960s. While most people think of egg cups are just for chicken eggs, the larger size of these is actually a nod to tradition. In Britain and Europe, the big side was often used for duck eggs, which are too large for a standard egg cup. In the mid-century kitchen, they also doubled as a serving bowl for small portions of fruit, custard, ice cream, or even sauces at the table. The smaller side fits a standard chicken egg perfectly. Blue Willow is one of the most recognizable transferware patterns in the world, with its birds, pagodas, willow trees, and the romantic “willow story” scene. These cups were made for export and marked simply “JAPAN” on the base, a common practice in the post-WWII to early-1970s era. Whether you collect Blue Willow, love vintage breakfast tableware, or just want a charming piece of mid-century Japanese export history, this set is both functional and display-worthy.
Measurements (each):
Height: 4 inches
Large cup diameter: 3 inches
Small cup diameter: 2 inches
Condition: Excellent – no chips, cracks, or crazing.
Historical Note:
In Britain and parts of Europe, the larger cup was often intended for duck eggs (which are bigger than chicken eggs) or for serving soft-boiled eggs still in the shell with toast soldiers and sometimes a garnish or sauce in the same cup.
In mid-century Japan, when these Blue Willow cups were being made, the larger side was also marketed for:
Desserts — small portions of fruit, custard, or ice cream.
Condiments or sauces at the table.
Sometimes even as a soufflé-style serving cup for baked egg dishes
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MountainAireVintage (6826)
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'LIKE NEW' Perfect mint condition.
EXCELLENT: Item has no chips cracks or crazing. May show wear from over the years such as small utensil marks.
GREAT: Item shows signs of wear due to everyday use. Larger utensil marks small flea bit chips.
VERY GOOD: Item has larger signs of wear from everyday use. Such as minor scratches, scuffing, crazing or flea bite chips.
GOOD: Item shows its years of use and love. There will be flaws such as chips, small cracks, more pronounced crazing etc. Price will reflect these defects. The item will show a larger amount of wear.
FAIR: Numerous noted flaws, some very significant. Larger cracks, chips, mars, etc. The item will have very significant wear for its years of use.
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