Description Japanese Komai style box and dish by Fujii Yoshitoyo, dating to the Meiji period. The box is of slim rectangular form with a domed lid, seated upon its original matching shallow dish. Both elements are decorated in the nicknamed Komai style with fine gold and silver decoration on a blackened iron ground. The upper surface features an unusual composition of Japanese tsuba, each with individual motifs including cranes, cherry blossom and bamboo, framed by delicate inlaid foliage and floral decoration. The matching dish continues the design and is finely engraved ‘With the Compliments of J. Konishi’. The base is signed with the Yoshitoyo mark (美豊作) above the circular Fujii company seal. This example reflects the high level of decorative export metalwork produced during the final decades of the 19th century in Japan, made using the same inlay techniques popularised by the Komai workshop in Kyoto and later adopted by independent makers such as Fujii Yoshitoyo. For further similar objects see our Japanese Collection. Measurements Box 3.5cm High x 9.5cm Wide x 8cm Deep Tray 1cm High x 13cm Wide x 11cm Deep ( 1.4 x 3.75 x 3.15 – 0.4 x 5.1 x 4.3 Inches) Condition Very Good antique condition What is a Tsuba? Tsuba is a Japanese term for the area of a sword that is part of a sword mounting and the hand guard. It is mounted between the sword’s blade and grip to protect the user’s hands. WHO was FUJII YOSHITOYO? Yoshitoyo was born in Kyoto, Japan in 1868, a 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. For further information see our Makers and Retailers page on Fujii Yoshitoyo. WHat is the Japanese 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. 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.
