Andrew Nethercott Antiques has dated this piece to the 1900s.
A fine solid sterling silver box with inlaid gold imperial chrysanthemum kamon mon.
Hand engraved leaf and swallow motifs.
The silver with original matted surface.
In very good condition, insignificant indent to the base.
2,7/16" x 2" x 1,1/4" or 62mm x 51mm x 32mm
weight 132 grams or 4.2 troy ounces.
There are many variations of the bonbonnieres given over the years starting with the first given in 1889. They were often made by the emperor’s master craftsmen mostly in silver but also cloisonné and lacquer.
There were three major events in the Meiji period, the Meiji accession to the throne in 1868, the birth of the Crown Prince in 1879, and the ceremony of instituting the Crown Prince in 1889. In 1891 it was decided to stress the dignity of the imperial household to the world with more regular ceremonies.
It is not known when the emperor first began giving cachou boxes as gifts but often when receiving guests for coffee or tea he would give these gifts in person.
Andrew Nethercott Antiques has dated this piece to the 1900s.
Works of art, collectables, scientific and decorative antiques from the 17th - 20th century
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Andrew Nethercott Antiques Profile Page
Japanese Imperial Silver Lidded Box Engraved Gold Chrysanthemum Mon Meiji Period Bonbonniere
