Description
A fine Japanese Meiji period box in the Komai style. The box of rectangular shape with hinged lid worked beautifully with gold and silver nunomezogan on a matt black ground. The lid decorated with blossoming Chrysanthemums with various gauge wire and colour. The outside of the box with a flowing silvered river with sprigs of foliage. To the base the mark of Fujii Yoshitoyo in a gilt flare. The box from the Meiji Period (1868-1912) Circa 1890.
Notes | Fujii Yoshitoyo was born in Kyoto, Japan in 1868. Fourth generation metal worker of first rank. He devoted himself to learning about the damascene art and developing the already known techniques used by his family. He left home and moved to Tokyo to develop further and at the age of 35 in 1902 he obtained a patent for his new techniques from the imperial government. In 1909 a second patent was granted to him, he continued to develop his skills and was awarded multiple first class medals throughout his exhibitions and was fortunate enough to sell directly to the imperial household. At its highest point the Fujii factory employer over 200 people mainly exporting sought after objects to Europe and America. During this time he also had his works represented by the Mitsukoshi company. Unlike Komai who use the Zogan (inlay) technique Fujii uses mostly an etching technique on his works.
Measurements | 4cm High x 11cm Wide x 8cm Deep (1.57 x 4.3 x 3.15 Inches)
Condition | Very Good-Excellent.
