Japanese Meiji Mixed-Metal Fox & Birds Decorative Box, Circa 1900

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Exceptional antique Japanese mixed-metal decorative box dating to the late Meiji period, circa 1890–1912. This finely crafted rectangular box features … Read more Exceptional antique Japanese mixed-metal decorative box dating to the late Meiji period, circa 1890–1912. This finely crafted rectangular box features an elaborate wildlife scene depicting a fox resting among grasses while watching birds in flight. The composition combines beautifully engraved landscape details with dimensional applied metalwork, giving the fox, vegetation and flying birds a striking sculptural quality. Additional hand-worked landscape and bird decoration continues around the exterior sides of the box. The warm, naturally aged bronze and copper-toned surface displays an appealing old patina that accentuates the intricate engraving and relief decoration. The hinged lid opens to reveal a fitted wood-lined interior, while the underside of the lid retains its warm gilt-toned finish. A wonderful example of Japanese decorative metalwork created during the Meiji era, when Japanese craftsmen produced exceptionally detailed objects combining traditional metalworking techniques with naturalistic subjects for both domestic and international collectors. See less