Box signed Katsutoshi Koku, Japan Meiji period

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

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

The lid, crafted in shibuichi, an alloy of silver and copper, is delicately adorned with an engraved design inlaid with precious metals, depicting a naturalistic scene of a pair of pheasants by a lakeside. Rendered with great finesse, this motif evokes the compositions of the painter Ohara Koson (1877-1945), renowned for his depictions of Japanese wildlife and landscapes. The artist primarily employed the kata-kiri-bori technique, a beveled engraving method that allows for variations in line thickness, creating a pictorial effect reminiscent of ink painting. The metalwork, enhanced with takabori (relief carving) and inlays, reveals a play of textures and reflections that imbue the composition with a sense of depth and movement.

The interior of the box, as well as the inside of the lid and the bottom, are covered in nashiji lacquer, a refined finish characterized by the inclusion of fine gold particles within the lacquer, creating a shimmering and silky effect. This choice reflects meticulous attention to detail, elevating the piece beyond mere functionality to a level of elegance and sophistication.

Exemplifying remarkable craftsmanship, this box is part of the production of Japanese art objects designed for a discerning clientele, both domestic and international. Through the harmony of its materials and the precision of its engraving, it illustrates the expertise of Meiji-era metalworkers, demonstrating their ability to blend tradition and innovation in metal art.
Dimensions: 5 x 13.5 x 10.5 cm.
Glossary of Metal Engraving Techniques:
• Takabori (relief carving): A carving technique where the motifs are slightly raised from the surface.
• Nunome-zogan: The inlaying of gold and silver threads or plates into a base metal (often bronze or shibuichi).
• Kata-kiri-bori: An engraving technique that mimics ink painting by using lines of varying thickness.
• Materials used by artisans: Shibuichi (silver and copper alloy), shakudo (gold and copper alloy), iron, and bronze.