Meoto yunomi (?) by Murata Toen

These Japanese cups are almost identical in size but one is slightly smaller by less than 1/8th inch in height and top diameter, the larger being about 3.5" high x 3.25" top diameter. I am uncertain as to whether this is meant to be a set of meoto yunomi, couples' cups, or not.

They are made of porcelain that is thin enough that I can see the shadow of my fingers passing between them and a light source. They are decorated only on one side. They have seen enough use that the gold trim on the rims of the cups is worn in places. Both are signed "Murata Toen" on the bottom in romanji.

There was a well respected potter by this name in the Kyoto region but none of the work I can find by him is signed using romanji. For a potter who is/was so highly regarded, I can find little information about him and only a few examples of his work. I do not know if this is his work. There was a retrospective of his work which probably generated more information and examples of his work, but I find only references to it.

I did find this from the Dictionary or Japanese Potters:

https://japan-antiques.jp/wp/murata-toen-%e6%9d%91%e7%94%b0%e9%99%b6%e8%8b%91/

"Murata Toen ????

1905-2002
male
kyo pottery

Born to a potter family in Gojozaka, Kyoto. Studied the basics of ceramics under his grandfather Murata Nagaosa from a young age. After studying Japanese painting in Yamamoto Shunkyo’s private painting school, worked for 2 years at Kyoto Ceramic Company.

Continued to support his family business at first and made vessels. When it became difficult to obtain fuel in 1940, switched to making doll sculptures that could be fired with low fire power.

Then made improvements for serious commercialization of these dolls. When it became possible to obtain sufficient fuel in 1955 after World War II, resumed production of pots, jars, and other ceramic works.

Continued production thereafter until passing at the age of 97. Held 7 private exhibitions in department stores, with a focus on Kyoto. Won numerous awards as a Kyoto Prefectural Excellent Traditional Industry Technician and Skilled Worker. Murata Toshimitsu is his son."

An $11 find with free shipping on E of the Bay. These actually lingered there for a few weeks until I decided to pursue as a research opportunity.