Japanese Damascene Inkwell Komai Style

Description From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to offer this unusual Japanese Damascene inkwell in the Komai style, dating to the late Meiji period (1868-1912). The inkwell is of striking pyramidal form, each of its five facets decorated with fine gold and silver damascened inlay. The panels depict a range of atmospheric scenes including blossoming iris flowers, fluttering butterflies, a solitary figure beneath a thunderstorm, and a tranquil riverside setting with buildings, a boat, and Mount Fuji rising in the background. The lid  features three floral roundels and is mounted with a hinged to the rear which opens to reveal a porcelain liner recessed within the hollowed body. Executed in the distinctive Komai style of damascene metalwork, this inkwell is a rare form and an excellent example of late Meiji period decorative arts. It would make a notable addition to any Japanese metalwork collection or a refined accent to a writing desk or interior. What is damascene? Damascening, known in Japanese as zōgan (象嵌), is the decorative art of inlaying gold, silver, or other metals into a contrasting surface, typically darkened bronze, steel, or shakudo alloy, to create intricate designs. In Japan, the technique has a long-standing tradition, historically used to embellish sword fittings such as tsuba (handguards) during the Edo and Meiji periods. The Japanese approach to damascening developed into highly refined forms, with regional styles and motifs reflecting the aesthetics of the period. Though rooted in functional sword mountings, zogan was later adapted for decorative arts, including vases, boxes, and jewellery, often for export. Japanese damascening is distinct for its precision, delicate layering, and symbolic detailing, making it a valued technique in Meiji-period metalwork and collectibles. LEARN ABOUT THE 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. LEARN ABOUT THE MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912) The Komai Company of Kyoto was one of Japan’s most celebrated makers of damascene metalwork. Founded in 1841 by Komai Seibei, the firm originally specialised in samurai sword fittings before turning to decorative objects after the Meiji Restoration. Under Komai Otojiro, the workshop became known internationally for its use of nunome zogan, a fine inlay technique using gold and silver on iron. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Komai produced a wide range of export wares including boxes, cases and vases, many of which were exhibited at world fairs. By the 1930s, production began to decline, and the company eventually ceased damascene work in 1941, shifting to jewellery. For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation. MEASUREMENTS 5.5cm High x 7.5cm Wide x 7.5cm Deep (2.17 x 2.95 Inches) CONDITION Good antique condition, some surface rusting to the inside. WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.