An exquisite Japanese silver box with tray, delicately engraved with blooming chrysanthemums and a perched bird on a branch. The ornamentation follows the tradition of Japanese botanical aesthetics, emphasizing longevity, purity, and serenity.
The lid is densely covered with engraved chrysanthemum blossoms, centered on a multilayered floral motif. In the upper left corner, a finely rendered bird adds a meditative accent.
In the lower right area, the piece bears the artist’s signature, presumed to read “山利” (Yamatoshi or Sanri), attesting to its handcrafted nature and individual authorship.
The box comprises three elements: a lid, an internal insert, and a tray. All parts are crafted from high-grade silver and black lacquered wood. The construction allows for practical and ceremonial use—ideal for storing incense, jewelry, or calligraphy tools—and was likely intended as a refined gift piece. The tray completes the ensemble and reinforces the set’s prestige.
Marks: Vertical Japanese hallmark with characters 精製 (“pure silver”) on the lid’s rim. Artists engraved signature on the front surface.
Dimensions: Box: 15 × 8 × 4 cm. Tray: 19 × 10 × 4.5 cm.
Weight: Total: 312 g. Box alone: 211 g.
Condition: Excellent overall condition. Polished surface, deep engraving, no visible losses.
Japanese silver boxes of the 20th century, inspired by traditional decorative aesthetics, reflect the synthesis of artisanal skill and refined artistic sensibility. Chrysanthemums—an imperial emblem and a symbol of purity and longevity—feature prominently in Japanese ornamentation and convey a sense of timeless elegance.
The combination of birds and flowers falls under the kachō-ga (花鳥画) genre, rooted in Chinese traditions and developed in Japan during the Edo and Meiji periods. These compositions gained popularity in the decorative arts of the 20th century, spanning from woodblock prints to silver boxes.
Such finely engraved pieces, often made by master artisans in Kyoto or Tokyo, were used for incense, calligraphy implements, or jewelry. Their quality silver, signature engraving, and wooden construction underscore both their ceremonial function and collectible value.
A superbly preserved example of Japanese decorative art. Polished silver surface, strong engraving, and original tray and insert. No apparent damage.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
