Box Signed Katsutoshi Koku, Japan, Meiji Period 1868 -1912

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, in shibuichi, an alloy of silver and copper, is delicately decorated with an engraved decoration and inlaid with precious metals, illustrating a naturalist 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), known for his representations of Japanese fauna and landscapes. The artist mainly used the technique of kata-kiri-bori, a beveled chiseling allowing to vary the thickness of the lines and to create a pictorial effect close 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 interior of the box, as well as the inside of the lid and the bottom, are covered with nashiji lacquer, a refined finish characterized by the inclusion of fine particles of gold in the lacquer, creating a sparkling and silky effect. This choice demonstrates the particular care given to the whole, going beyond simple functionality to reach a level of elegance and sophistication. With a remarkable quality of execution, 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 chasers 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.

A brief glossary of metal engraving: takabori (relief carving): An engraving technique in which the designs are slightly raised. nunome-zogan: Inlaying gold and silver wire or plates into the base metal (often bronze or shibuichi). katakiribori: A carving technique that imitates ink painting by using lines of varying thickness. Craftsmen used shibuichi (an alloy of silver and copper), shakudo (an alloy of gold and copper), iron, and bronze.