Vintage Near Eastern Enamel Copper Tea Set Hand Painted Tray Saucer Cup 12.5"

This fine three-piece hand-painted enamel decorative tea set includes a contoured oval serving tray, matching saucer, and an intricately decorated teacup. Rendered in deep cobalt blue, lapis, and contrasting black grounds, the set features traditional hand-brushed floral sprays, paisley (boteh) center medallion detailing, and bird-and-flower motifs. Designed as a rich cultural accent, this collection is ideal for shelf styling, credenza display, or bringing warmth to Global Eclectic, Boho, and Wabi-Sabi interior spaces.
Cultural & Artistic Background
Crafted using classic Near Eastern enamelware (Mina-kari) techniques, this set represents a centuries-old tradition of metal enameling. Copper shapes are coated with smooth base enamel before master artisans apply micro-fine details by hand using specialized paints. The motifs incorporate traditional bird-and-flower iconography alongside delicate white arabesque scrollwork (islimi) and vibrant floral bouquets framed by geometric dot patterns.
Condition & Surface Character
The set exhibits genuine vintage character and wear consistent with age and handling. Visible enamel loss and flaking are present along the handles and outer rim of the blue serving tray, exposing the underlying dark base metal. Minor flea bites and small enamel chips occur along the cup rim and saucer edge. Structural form across all three pieces remains sound and stable, retaining rich color saturation across all main painted surfaces.
Dimensions & Weight
Height: Tray 0.75 inches | Cup 2.0 inches | Saucer 0.5 inches
Width/Diameter: Tray 12.5 inches (length) x 7.5 inches (width) | Saucer 5.0 inches diameter | Cup 4.0 inches (width including handle, 3.5 inches rim diameter)
Depth: Tray 0.75 inches
Weight Profile: Moderate (solid metal substrate with glazed enamel layer)