Two demitasse coffee cups and saucers from Ryuhou Kiln, Arita-yaki. The leaves are puffed out. They are hand-painted, with both the leaves and berries painted in gold. The berries look like grapes, but the leaves are different. I believe these are nandina berries. The berries are definitely nandina. Nandina is considered an auspicious tree, as its name is associated with turning misfortune into good fortune. It is said to be effective in warding off evil, protecting against demons, and preventing fires. It has flower meanings such as building a good home, bringing good fortune, and happiness. It is used in events such as the first Boy's Festival and the Shichi-Go-San festival. In the past, samurai would put nandina leaves in their helmets and stick branches in the floor before going into battle to pray for victory. It is a representative plant displayed during the New Year's holidays and was planted in gardens along with holly to ward off evil spirits. Today, it is often used as a garnish in formal cuisine and as a decorative element. Nandina leaves are often added to sekihan (red bean rice) served at celebrations like the first Boy's Festival and Shichi-Go-San. In feng shui, it is also said to have good effects, and planting it in the northeast (kimon, or demon's gate) or southwest (ura-kimon, or back demon's gate) directions is considered very auspicious. Therefore, I believe the auspicious nandina pattern is painted on these demitasse cups. They are Arita-yaki, very easy to drink from, and have a cute color scheme. No box. Cup: Diameter 6.5cm, Height 5.5cm Saucer: Diameter 12.5cm