$64.05
$106.96
Description Exquisite damascene vesta case by master metalworker Fujii Yoshitoyo, depicting the mythical Hō-ō bird and chrysanthemums From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to present an exceptional Meiji Period (1868-1912) vesta case by Fujii Yoshitoyo, one of Japan’s most celebrated metalworkers. The case is finely decorated in intricate gold damascene borders, framing two larger panels. One side features the majestic Hō-ō (phoenix), the mythical bird symbolising peace, prosperity, and imperial power, with sweeping tail feathers that embody elegance and divine grace. The reverse depicts songbirds among chrysanthemums (kiku), a flower long associated with longevity and the Japanese imperial family. Signed in the lower corner with Yoshitoyo’s distinctive Mount Fuji mark, this vesta case exemplifies his innovative techniques and mastery of design. The vesta case reflects Japan’s fascination with symbolism, mythology, and fine detail during this golden age. Vesta cases such as this were functional yet highly decorative, used to store matches while showcasing the intricate details of Japanese design for both domestic and international markets. A remarkable addition to any collection of Japanese Meiji Period metalwork, damascene art, or symbolic objects of the imperial tradition. Fujii Yoshitoyo Fujii Yoshitoyo (born 1868, Kyoto) was a master Japanese metalworker celebrated for his pioneering damascene techniques and international acclaim. Trained in a family workshop with traditions dating back to the 17th century, Yoshitoyo modernised Japanese inlaid metalwork and received Imperial commissions as well as medals at world exhibitions. His rare creations, ranging from jewellery to intricate decorative pieces, are highly prized by collectors for their craftsmanship, innovation, and historic significance. For further information see our makers and retailers page on Fujii Yoshitoyo. Ho-o The Japanese Ho-o, or Phoenix, is a legendary bird symbolising peace, prosperity, and divine balance. Adopted as a symbol of the Imperial household, particularly the Empress, the Ho-o represents fire, the sun, justice, fidelity, and harmony. Often depicted with radiant plumage combining elements of sacred animals, this mythical creature appears only in times of great peace, making it a powerful emblem in Japanese art and culture. From textiles and lacquerware to decorative arts, the Phoenix continues to embody auspicious power and timeless beauty. For further information see our article The Mythical Japanese Phoenix: Ho-o (Hōō) in Art and Mythology. Chrysanthemum (Kiku) The chrysanthemum, known as kiku (菊) in Japan, is one of the country’s most important symbols. Introduced from China in the 5th century, it quickly became associated with longevity, renewal, and autumn. By the 12th century, Emperor Go-Toba adopted the chrysanthemum as the crest of the Imperial family, where it remains today as the Imperial Seal of Japan, also called the Chrysanthemum Throne. The flower appears widely in art, poetry, festivals, and design, celebrated for both its seasonal beauty and its links to the virtues of loyalty, resilience, and honour. For further information see our article Chrysanthemums in Japanese Culture: The Imperial Flower of Autumn. Vesta Case Vesta cases, also known as match safes, were small containers designed to hold friction matches from the early 19th century. Popular during the Victorian and Edwardian periods, they were produced in silver, brass, gold, enamel, and other materials, often with intricate designs or novelty forms. Used to safely strike and store matches, vesta cases were made by leading makers across Europe, America, Japan, and beyond. Today, they are highly collectable antiques valued for their variety, material and makers. For further information see our article What is a Vesta Case? The History, Makers and Collecting of Antique Match Safes. 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 4.5cm High x 3.3cm Wide x 0.7cm Deep (1.77 x 1.32 x 0.28 Inches) Condition Excellent With every purchase from Jacksons Antique, you will receive our latest product guides, 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.
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