As a Vintage Boutique Owner,and a collector of "Occupied Japan" collectables for some 30 years now,my interest in these treasures is well served,and loved.So,I wanted to share my personal knowledge of these particular collectables,so that others may gain some insight and appreciation of the craftmanship,beauty,history,and a breif guide to investing in,or collecting these items.I  found, after placing fine porcelain figurines,fans,and other Occupied Japan collectables for sale in the boutique,that a lot of customers,young and older,had no idea what "Occupied Japan" even meant!

 After the American occupation of Japan ,when WWII ended,a percentage of  all items leaving the country had to be "stamped" on the item as such.It is said the the Japanese were so ashamed of this stamping,that they often didn't mark as many items that left Japan as they could get away with.Thus,you may find an item identical to another that is stamped "made in occupied Japan",but it isn't marked.If there is no mark,the value is very nominal.Marked with RED ink is the oldest mark(the other is black),and the most collectable in fine porcelain figurines,are the Japanese figurines.The method used to make these fine porcelain collectables was taught to the Japanese by the Chinese,in early history.Italy then learned the method from the Japanese craftsmen,and the same method was,and is today,used by craftsmen to make fine porcelain items,such as the famous Lladro porcelain figurines.So you see,this is an acient porcelain making method,and the figurines are still beautiful and strong today,from the 1945-1952 era.An investor or collector would be wise to collect "Occupied Japan" items,as they aren't in abundance today,and to find a set of ANYTHING made and stamped as such, is valuable.Many different items were made,from lamps to toys,and a wide array of other collectables,to include vintage jewelry and artworks.A collector's book is a good idea,and will give you the value,and a picture of the items.The Victorian figurines are so detailed and lifelike,and very often bring up to $75-$100 for a 12" pair.Never buy a broken collectable item,and always look for the largest,if you are buying  porcelain figurines,as they are the most valuable.In addition to the "Occupied Japan" stamping, on some items,Designers' names are found.Like any other collectable,a signed piece would be the best investment.         

I hope my giude has been of interest and value to you,and  has left you with a little knowledge to share on the subject of "Occupied Japan" collectables.