Description KOMAI OTOJIRO: A SUPERB GOLD AND SILVER INLAID IRON DISH
By Komai Otojiro of Kyoto, signed Nihon koku, Saikyo, Kyoto ju, Komai sei
Japan, Kyoto, early Meiji period (1868-1912)
The circular lobed dish raised on a circular foot rim and inlaid in typical Komai gold and silver inlay showing elaborate geometrical motifs arranged in concentric bands, the rim decorated with leafy fruiting grape vines. The central circular panel is decorated in high relief with an image of Saigyo Hoshi absorbed in deep thoughts, his expression is crafted masterfully. He wears an ornately decorated robe with rich gold showing imperial crests and geometrical motifs. The central panel is surrounded by five further panels showing birds, butterflies and various flowers. Signed within a rectangular reserve in silver Nihon koku, Saikyo, Kyoto ju, KOMAI sei [Made by Komai, Kyoto, Japan] Saikyo (Western Capital) was an alternative name for Kyoto widely used during the early part of the Meiji period.
DIAMETER 30 cm
WEIGHT 1,338 g
Condition: Very good condition with expected surface wear and some rust build-up.
Provenance: British collection.
Auction comparison:
Compare with a very similar yet larger dish sold at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 16 May 2019, London, lot 208 (
sold for 30,062 GBP).