Box signed Katsutoshi Koku, Japan, Meiji period 1868-1912

Rectangular silver box bearing the Japanese hallmark junjin which means pure silver, made in the Meiji period (1868-1912) and signed Katsutoshi Koku.

The lid, made of shibuichi, an alloy of silver and copper, is delicately decorated with an engraved and inlaid decoration of precious metals, illustrating a naturalistic scene where a pair of pheasants stand at the edge of a lake.

This motif, rendered with great finesse, evokes the compositions of the painter Ohara Koson (1877-1945), renowned for his depictions of Japanese wildlife and landscapes. The artist primarily used the kata-kiri-bori technique, a beveled chiseling technique that allows for varying the thickness of the lines and creating a pictorial effect similar to ink painting. The metalwork, also in takabori and inlays, reveals a play of textures and reflections that gives the composition an impression of depth and movement.

The inside of the box, as well as the inside of the lid and the base, are covered in nashiji lacquer, a refined finish characterized by the inclusion of fine gold particles in the lacquer, creating a shimmering and silky effect. This choice demonstrates the particular care taken over the whole, going beyond mere functionality to achieve a level of elegance and sophistication.

Of remarkable craftsmanship, this box is part of the production of Japanese art objects intended for a demanding clientele, both local and international. Through the harmony of its materials and the precision of its engraving, it illustrates the know-how of the master carvers of the Meiji era and their ability to combine tradition and innovation in the art of metal. Dimensions: 5 x 13.5 x 10.5 cm.

Short glossary of metal engraving:

· takabori (relief carving): Engraving technique where the patterns are slightly raised.

· nunome-zogan: Inlay of gold and silver wires or plates into the base metal (often bronze or shibuichi).

· katakiribori: A carving technique that imitates ink painting using lines of varying thicknesses.

· Craftsmen used shibuichi (an alloy of silver and copper), shakudo (an alloy of gold and copper), iron, and bronze.