Fujii Yoshitoyo (1868-Unkown)
Fujii Yoshitoyo, born in Kyoto in 1868, came from a family renowned for producing high-quality inlaid metalwork since the 17th century. His name is sometimes rendered as “Biho” or “Miho,” as the kanji 美豊 can be read in different ways. His first name can also appear as 美豐, using the traditional form of the character 豐. For four generations, the Fujii family had established a prestigious reputation for their craftsmanship. Yoshitoyo trained in this family tradition from an early age, quickly recognizing opportunities for innovation. His dedication and careful study enabled him to perfect his craft, but conservative Kyoto made it difficult for him to introduce new techniques. Determined to evolve the art, Yoshitoyo moved to Tokyo, where he immersed himself in his work and successfully introduced significant improvements.
Japanese Komai Style Damascene Box by Fujii Yoshitoyo previously sold by jacksons antique
In 1902, at the age of 35, Yoshitoyo was awarded his first patent from the Imperial Government, followed by a second in 1909. His damascene work, often based on designs by Professor Bisei Unno of the Tokyo Fine Art School, gained widespread acclaim for its quality and modern appeal. By this time, the Fujii factory employed over 200 workers, and his creations were highly sought after not only in Japan but also in China, India, Europe, and the United States. The factory produced a range of items including brooches, scarf pins, bracelets, necklaces, cigarette cases, matchboxes, writing sets, vases, and other decorative pieces. His works were even traded by the Mitsukoshi department store.
Close up of the Yoshitoyo saku 美豊作 signature
Fujii Yoshitoyo company mark on a box sold by Jacksons Antique
Fujii’s achievements were recognized with numerous first-class medals at various exhibitions, and his works were purchased by the Imperial Household. He participated in prominent international exhibitions, including the Japan-British Exhibition in London in 1910, the Tokyo Taisho Exhibition in 1914, the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco in 1915, and the Century of Progress International Exposition in Chicago in 1933. His inlaid work, particularly his damascene technique, stood out among similar Japanese productions. One of his most famous pieces, a miniature of Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji temple reduced to 1/50 of the original size, took four years to complete and cost 15,000 yen. This masterpiece was showcased at the Japan-British Exhibition. Although Fujii’s works bear similarities to those of the Komai family, they were created using etching techniques rather than the traditional Nunome Zogan method. It is believed that the patents Fujii received in the early 1900s were for the new damascening techniques he developed, which is why no Nunome Zogan pieces from his workshop have been identified to date.
Japanese ‘Komai’ Style Box and Dish Fujii Yoshitoyo sold by Jacksons antique
We would like to thank and credit Dr. Georgiy Shoulga. http://www.smokingsamurai.com/ for the extensive research on Fujii Yoshitoyo.