By Masayuki, signed MasayukiJapan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)The cover masterfully inlaid in gold, silver and bronze with a sparrow (suzume) landing on a branch with a blooming magnolia (mokuren), all within a raised ‘endless knot’ frame. The sides with inlaid grapes amidst vines, the inside with massive fire-gilding and neatly incised family crests (mon). The base with incised pomegranates. Artist signature to lower left corner reading MASAYUKI and saku.SIZE 11.2 x 10.5 x 4.5 cmWEIGHT 671.3 gramsCondition: Fine condition with some wear and traces of use. The ‘endless knot’ frame is loose.Provenance: From an Austrian private collection. Kept in the same family since the first half of the 20th century and thence by descent.