Are these from Japan or China?

[Cbutcher]

Found these two cups 2" tall and 1.5 " in diameter. The marks are very small and are shot through a loop. Has a very fine silver interior and the outside has the smoothest tarnish finish I have ever seen. Hammered feel with small five petal flowers on the exterior.
What are they and where are they from?
Thanks
Craig

[davidross]

Hello Craig

Your sterling silver Japanese teacups were made by Shoeido.

The same cups are offered in their recent (April 2012) catalog.

Judging from photos of the same cups in the catalog, the "antiqued" look may be a factory-applied finish. While many forum members advocate polishing silver, the Japanese in particular cherish silver with patina and an aged look, and in this case I would advise against polishing.

Regards

David R

[Cbutcher]

David
Thank you for the identification. I would agree that the patina is a factory-applied finish.
Some areas on one cup have been cleaned so I think I will have one tinted and one polished to display.

Craig