Japanese Meiji Bamboo and Silver Box with Match Holder

Description Box and Match Holder From our Japanese collection, we’re pleased to offer this Meiji period woven bamboo and mixed metal box with matching match holder. The box is finely constructed with a woven bamboo exterior in a rich warm tone, lined in a black lacquer trim. The lid is set with a rectangular silver panel featuring a mixed metal inlay of roosters among flowering plants and bamboo, rendered in shibuichi and copper tones with delicate engraving and restrained colour. The composition is balanced and asymmetrical, showing the naturalistic influence found in metalwork of the Japanese Meiji period. Accompanying the box is a matching match holder of similar construction and design, set with a silver panel to the top decorated with a chick among grasses. The mixed metal technique, known as zogan, was a prominent feature of Meiji period metalwork, often used to decorate both functional and ornamental objects for domestic use and export. The combination of fine woven basketry with silver and mixed metal inlay reflects the high level of craftsmanship present in Japanese decorative arts of the late 19th century. A good quality original set from the Meiji period (1868–1912). ZOGAN 象嵌 Japanese word for Metal Inlay SHIBUICHI 四分一 which literally means “one quarter” in Japanese, is a traditional metal alloy made from about 25% silver and 75% copper (though the ratio can vary depending on the desired colour). What sets shibuichi apart is its ability to develop a subtle, smoky grey patina through a special chemical treatment using rokusho, the same solution used for shakudo. The final tone can range from pale silvery grey to a soft blue-grey or even a mossy green, depending on the alloy mix and the artisan’s technique. Shibuichi was commonly used in samurai sword fittings and decorative inlays, valued for its understated elegance and ability to harmonise beautifully with gold, shakudo, and other materials. Japanese Lacquerware 漆器 Shikki can be traced back to the J0mon period (circa 14,000–300 BCE) and is a Japanese craft with a wide range of uses including in fine and decorative arts. Products coated with lacquer are recognisable by an extremely durable and glossy finish. A number of terms are used in Japanese to refer to lacquerware. Shikki (漆器) means “lacquer ware” in the most literal sense, while nurimono (塗物) means “coated things”, and urushi-nuri (漆塗) means “lacquer coating.” The sap of the lacquer tree has traditionally been used in Japan to perform lacquerware decoration. However the substance is poisonous to the touch until it dries, the creation of lacquerware has long been practiced only by skilled dedicated artisans. MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912) The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art. For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation. MEASUREMENTS Main Box 5.75 High x 15cm Long x 11cm Wide (2.26 x 5.91 x 4.33 Inches) Match Box 4.5cm High x 6.5cm Wide x 5cm Deep (1.77 x 2.56 x1.97 Inches) CONDITION Excellent minor wear consistent with age, some small nibbles around the top rim of the inside of the box on the lacquer. With every purchase from Jacksons Antique, you will receive our latest product guide, certificate of authenticity, full tracking information so you can monitor your shipment from start to finish and our personal no-hassle, money-back policy giving you that extra confidence when purchasing. Don’t forget to sign up to our free monthly newsletter for 10% off your first online purchase.