Details
Description
This antique Japanese mixed-metal relief wall plaque dates to the late 19th century Meiji period and is a fine example …
Read more
This antique Japanese mixed-metal relief wall plaque dates to the late 19th century Meiji period and is a fine example of Japanese decorative metalwork produced during a time of major artistic transition. Crafted using traditional mixed-metal techniques, the plaque features a richly detailed scene that includes a geisha figure, a temple or pagoda structure, a bird likely representing a crane, and lush floral and foliage motifs such as lotus or chrysanthemum leaves. The composition is executed in high relief, giving the scene strong dimensionality and visual depth. The plaque includes a small hole at the top, allowing for wall display, and retains a handwritten note on the reverse.
Works like this were created after the Haitorei edict curtailed the carrying of swords, prompting highly skilled metalworkers to adapt their expertise from sword fittings to decorative objects for domestic and Western export markets. The use of mixed metals, likely including bronze or copper with gold and silver accents in the form of shakudo and shibuichi inlays, reflects the sophisticated craftsmanship of the period. Symbolic imagery such as the crane, associated with longevity and good fortune, and lotus foliage, representing purity and spiritual enlightenment, was especially popular in Meiji-era art. The plaque showcases advanced techniques including uchidashi hammering to create high relief and zogan inlay work, making it both a decorative object and a testament to traditional Japanese metalworking mastery.
See less
- Dimensions
- 7.5ʺW × 0.5ʺD × 7.5ʺH
- Styles
- Japanese
- Period
- Late 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- Japan
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Metal
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Gold
- Condition Notes
- In good condition with little but expected wear. In good condition with little but expected wear. less
Questions about the item?
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Related Collections
- Louis XVI Decorative Plates
- Cast Iron Decorative Plates
- Charles Fields Haviland Decorative Plates
- Canvas Decorative Plates
- Oil Paint Decorative Plates
- Christian Dior Decorative Plates
- Longwy Decorative Plates
- 22K Gold Decorative Plates
- Japanese Decorative Plates
- Brass Decorative Plates
- Spanish Decorative Plates
- Copper Decorative Plates
- Italian Decorative Plates
- Chinese Decorative Plates
- Blue Decorative Plates
- Green Decorative Plates
- Fruit Plates
- Gold Decorative Plates
- Chinoiserie Decorative Plates
- Piero Fornasetti Decorative Plates
- Metal Decorative Plates
- Persian Decorative Plates
- Wedgwood Decorative Plates
- Henriot Quimper Decorative Plates
- Asian Decorative Plates