An elegant Japanese Komai-style damascene cigarette or card case, dating from the early 20th century (circa 19001940), finely decorated with 24-karat gold and silver wire inlay on a blackened steel base.
Both front and back are richly detailed, depicting Mount Fuji with a torii gate, pagoda, lake, rolling hills, and village landscape. Each element is carefully rendered with traditional damascene techniques, where precious metal wires are hammered into finely engraved grooves, creating a luminous contrast against the dark lacquered ground.
A superb example of Japanese decorative metalwork, this case embodies the artistry and refinement of Komai-inspired craftsmanship.
Size: 15.5 8 0.7 cm
Weight: 148 g
Gold and silver inlays remain vibrant and intact
Minor surface wear and light tarnish consistent with age
No significant damage or repairs
An elegant Japanese Komai-style damascene cigarette or card case, dating from the early 20th century (circa 19001940), finely decorated with 24-karat gold and silver wire inlay on a blackened steel base.
Both front and back are richly detailed, depicting Mount Fuji with a torii gate, pagoda, lake, rolling hills, and village landscape. Each element is carefully rendered with traditional damascene techniques, where precious metal wires are hammered into finely engraved grooves, creating a luminous contrast against the dark lacquered ground.
A superb example of Japanese decorative metalwork, this case embodies the artistry and refinement of Komai-inspired craftsmanship.
Size: 15.5 8 0.7 cm
Weight: 148 g
Gold and silver inlays remain vibrant and intact
Minor surface wear and light tarnish consistent with age
No significant damage or repairs
