Noritake hand painted china mayo bowl or sauce dish w/ plate & tiny ladle, vintage Japan

Early Noritake (M mark, probably 1930s or 1940s) porcelain bowl with underplate and tiny ladle or spoon, all beautifully hand painted with a sunset scene.

I've seen these called mayonnaise dishes or whipped cream dishes, though really either seems a little strange - just put this out at a ladies lunch and say 'Dear, have a little more mayonnaise' ?! Self serve whipped cream !?

This set doesn't look as though it was ever used with any sauce at all, paint is lovely and bright without wear,. The underside of the spoon has a little bit of foxing.