Lithophanes Coffee Set

Q: I have an Arabian coffee set, purchased in the United Arab Emirates when I lived there in the 1980s. The design is unusual in because there is an indentation in the bottom of the cup. When the teacup is held up to the light, you can see a Geisha girl, yet nothing shows unless it’s held up to the light. There is no mark on the bottom, but I think is was made in Japan. Have you seen anything like this?

A: The picture in the bottom of the teacup is called a “lithophane.” The design is made in thin layers of clay. The picture in the bottom of the cup can change slightly, depending on how much light shines through. Many lithophanes were made in Europe from 1825 to 1875. Lithophanes were also made in the United States and other countries and are still being made. They can be found in beer steins and mugs, cups, lamps and lampshades, nightlights, tea warmers, and other items. The Geisha girl cups are a popular Japanese porcelain collectibles. A cup and saucer sells for about $15.