Set of three Japanese late Meiji to Taisho period graduated gold-lacquered sakazuki (sake cups), each constructed of thin, turned red-lacquered wood finely decorated in gold and silver makie-e with scenes of Lake Omi. Housed in a tomobako, wrapped in Shanghai newspaper dated 1921, and with an original note stating they were purchased in Nikko in 1921. Circa 1900 to early 20th century. 5 1/2", 5”, and 4 1/2" diameter. The largest with a small rim chip and two tiny chips to the foot. From the collection of a descendent of Francis Byron Nightingale, an electrical engineer with General Electric, who worked in China from about 1920-1922 helping the country convert to electricity.