As part of our Japanese art collection we are delighted to offer this exceptional quality circular lidded box , the box although unsigned was more than likely crafted by a highly skilled Tsuba maker and in the manner of the Soten school of artists , it was after the Meiji restoration in 1868 and with little demand for sword fittings , that these artisans had to quickly turn their skills to producing other types of wares for an emerging export market , the main body of this box is formed from a steel grey shibuichi metal, finely onlaid around the circumference with solid gold floral mons , the heavy lid has been formed almost Tsuba shaped and not quite fully round , it depicts a stunning mixed metal battle scene with warriors amidst a mountainous backdrop , the inner lid reveals finely detailed Samurai warriors on horseback , crossing a thickly onlaid silver river, these subjects would be representations of famous historic battle scenes , this unknown sword fitting artist has manufactured a most tactile and useful box, whilst retaining some of the more traditional Tsuba making decoration to the inner and outer lid,.
He clearly managed to adapt his skills from a centuries old sword fittings business to the new , and at this time relatively unknown export market that was to follow.
A truly magical piece of Japanese metalwork from the early Meiji period -circa 1880
Approximate sizes
Diameter: 2.5" 6.5 cm
Height: 1.25" 3.0 cm
Weight: 206 gms
Free insured worldwide delivery included in the price of this item .
Physical Dimensions
Height
3cm (1.18")
Width
6cm (2.36")
Depth
6cm (2.36")
Declaration
Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art has dated this piece to the 1880s.
Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA417807
Dealers Notes
Available during usual business hours 7 days a week by prior appointment only.
Available out of hours for general enquiries : sales@stagsheadantiques.com or steve@steveslyjapaneseart.com
Tel 07774-635918
Description
As part of our Japanese art collection we are delighted to offer this exceptional quality circular lidded box , the box although unsigned was more than likely crafted by a highly skilled Tsuba maker and in the manner of the Soten school of artists , it was after the Meiji restoration in 1868 and with little demand for sword fittings , that these artisans had to quickly turn their skills to producing other types of wares for an emerging export market , the main body of this box is formed from a steel grey shibuichi metal, finely onlaid around the circumference with solid gold floral mons , the heavy lid has been formed almost Tsuba shaped and not quite fully round , it depicts a stunning mixed metal battle scene with warriors amidst a mountainous backdrop , the inner lid reveals finely detailed Samurai warriors on horseback , crossing a thickly onlaid silver river, these subjects would be representations of famous historic battle scenes , this unknown sword fitting artist has manufactured a most tactile and useful box, whilst retaining some of the more traditional Tsuba making decoration to the inner and outer lid,.
“
He clearly managed to adapt his skills from a centuries old sword fittings business to the new , and at this time relatively unknown export market that was to follow.
Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art
fig 1. Exceptional Japanese Mixed Metal Tsuba Makers Lidded Box
A truly magical piece of Japanese metalwork from the early Meiji period -circa 1880
Approximate sizes
Diameter: 2.5" 6.5 cm
Height: 1.25" 3.0 cm
Weight: 206 gms
Free insured worldwide delivery included in the price of this item .
Physical Dimensions
Height
3cm (1.18")
Width
6cm (2.36")
Depth
6cm (2.36")
Date of Manufacture
Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art has dated this piece to the 1880s.
Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA417807
About the Dealer
Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art
Sellingantiques verified Since Jan 2012
Specialists in japanese works of art from the meiji period 1868-1912
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