Seyei Fine China Japanese Dogwood Teapot, Pattern 3172
Seyei China · Kitchenware > Teapots & Tea Sets
Era / Decade
1950s-1960s (Mid-Century Modern). The 'Hand Painted' designation and 'Japan' stamp are consistent with post-WWII exports.
Material
Fine porcelain / Bone China. Features high-fire glazing with hand-painted enamel details and likely silver or platinum trim along the handle and spout.
Condition
Very Good. The stamp is crisp and legible. The base shows minor shelf wear (soiling on the unglazed foot ring). Enamel on the cherry/dogwood blossoms appears intact, but the metallic trim on the handle shows some light rubbing.
Demand Level
Moderate. There is a steady niche for vintage Japanese porcelain, particularly for collectors of floral teapots or those replacing pieces in the 3172 set.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00
Estimated Retail Value
$65.00 - $85.00 (adjusted for modern luxury tea service equivalents)
Comparable Sales
Similar Seyei teapots typically sell between $30 and $55 on eBay. Full 15-piece sets in this pattern have reached $150-$200, making individual replacement pieces valuable for collectors.
Description
Exquisite vintage Seyei Fine China teapot featuring pattern 3172. This hand-painted piece depicts a delicate flowering dogwood or cherry blossom branch on a cool, pale blue-grey 'colored china' ground. The design wraps around the bulbous body, accented with elegant silver-tone trim on the handle and spout. Made in Japan.
Key Features
Hand-painted craftsmanship; Mid-Century Japanese export quality; rare 'Colored China' blue-tinted base; highly collectible nature of Japanese porcelain floral patterns.
Authenticity Indicators
Authentic Seyei backstamp including the laurel wreath logo, pattern number 3172, and 'Japan' origin marking. Professional hand-painted application. Confidence level: High.
Flaws to Note
Minor discoloration on the bottom rim (unglazed portion); potential light wear to the silver trim on handle/spout; verify no hairline cracks around the spout base or lid rim (lid not fully visible).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for pattern matching and global reach) or Etsy (strong audience for vintage MCM kitchenware).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'MCM', 'Hand Painted', 'Dogwood', and 'Japan'. Take high-resolution photos of the hand-painted texture (enamel) and the silver trim. Ensure double-boxing for shipping to prevent breakage, as fine china is brittle.