Austin - Sterling Silver

PRESENTING a GORGEOUS, VERY HIGH QUALITY and EXTREMELY RARE piece of Japanese Meiji Period Sterling Silver 2 Handled Basket by Katsu Miyamoto. EXQUISITE, EXCEPTIONAL, RARE & IMPORTANT! This is definitely a Meiji Period piece due to the fact that it is marked with the sterling silver mark “jungin”. The Meiji period was from 1868 to 1912 and in 1928 a law was introduced in Japan compelling the use of decimal marks for silver. This pre-dates that decimalization law. We are of the opinion that it is from circa 1900. Miyamoto Shoko was founded in 1880 as the first silverware specialty shop. In 1899, Miyamoto Shoko’s silverwares were ordered by the family members of the Emperor of Japan, and to this day, they are making fine and graceful handicrafts with skillful craftsmen. Loved by numerous customers since the Meiji era, Miyamoto Shoko’s products have also been given to Princess Mako and Princess Kako of Akishino, as well as Princess Aiko Toshinomiya, on their birthdays. Katsu Miyamoto (宮本勝), in 1880, in order to increase the sales of tobacco and cigarettes to foreigners founded the Moyamoto Shoko company, which produced different silverwares in general and particularly silver cigarette cases. Miyamoto’s first name, Katsu (勝) in some sources is written as “Masaru”, since 勝 kanji can be pronounced in both ways. This basket is of the HIGHEST QUALITY imaginable! The top of the basket has the MOST GORGEOUS repousse work of flowers, probably lotus flowers, with leaves and foliage. It has an underlying chevron effect chasing, reflecting parquetry. The 2 handles are cast in the form of bamboo handles. The rim of the top likewise is cast as bamboo. The base is equally stunning in a different way! It is chased with a chevron effect, like parquetry flooring and the four feet simulate pieces of sliced bamboo with an interlinking gallery of support columns, likewise, simulating bamboo. The QUALITY of WORKMANSHIP is OUTSTANDING! The pieces weighs exactly 525 grams. This piece takes my breath away! This is one for the SERIOUS COLLECTOR of EXQUISITE AND RARE Japanese silver. You will not find another like it, for sale ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD …… I know as I have searched! Provenance: Acquired from a Dallas Private Collector. Dimensions: 9.6 inches wide, 7.6 inches deep and 2.75 inches tall ( 7.25 inches tall with handles up) Condition: Very good. It looks like the base 4 legged gallery, has been repaired/re-attached to the base, but otherwise it is excellent and of Museum quality. The Meiji period (明治時代 Meiji-jidai?), also known as the Meiji era, is a Japanese era which extended from October 23, 1868 through July 30, 1912.[1] This period represents the first half of the Empire of Japan during which Japanese society moved from being an isolated feudal society to its modern form. Fundamental changes affected its social structure, internal politics, economy, military, and foreign relations. The period corresponded with the reign of Emperor Meiji after 1868, and lasted until his death in 1912. It was succeeded by the Taishō period upon the accession of Emperor Taishō to the throne. Solid silver pieces...

Antique Early 20th century sterling silver flask. Made in Europe, most likely Spain, Circa 1920-1930's. Hallmarked with a star, Spanish silver hallmark. X-Ray Tested Confirmed ...

A Chinese silver goblet profusely decorated with chased, richly defined chrysanthemum against a matte background and is supported by two intertwi...

A good antique Chinese Qing dynasty silver dragon snuff box by Luen Hing (Shanghai) and retailed by Wang Hing & Co, Canton, circa 1900, the box mos...

Antique late-19th century Chinese very unusual solid silver eperne, the central trumpet shaped vase and twin baskets are highly decorated with pierced bamboo leaves, cherry blossom a...

A Chinese Export Silver Jardiniere circa 1890, of rectangular form and variously pierced to all four sides. The side with the vacant cartouche has two opposing dragons separated by a...

Set of Ten Sterling Silver Coaster Dishes, Early 20th Century

Sterling silver sugar spoon with a long graceful handle. The piece has a hallmark and is stamped Sterling. Probably English.    

This exceptional 4-piece sterling silver tea and coffee service by the renowned Ewart & Perkins, Sheffield Company, London, showcases the fine artistry and craftsmanship of mid 20th-...

Flower centrepiece is a precious decorative object realized in the 20th century. A very elegant silver centrepiece in the shape of a flower Supported by three small feet under ...

An exceptional, fine and impressive antique George V English sterling silver hip flask, an addition to our wine and drinks related silverware collection. This exceptional antique George V sterling silver hip flask has a plain rectangular rounded form. This impressive flask has a subtly curved form proffering a comfortable fit in the majority of pockets. The surface of the flask is plain and unembellished. This impressive antique flask is fitted with a plain domed hallmarked hinged cover with bayonet fitting. This George V flask retains the original full hallmarked detachable push fit drinking cup which features the original gilt interior, this drinking vessel is a large example for its type. This flask has been tested and is water tight and ready for use. To ensure the flask remains water tight, the cork should be moist and therefore fully expanded to provide an effective seal. There are two recommended methods to ensure the cork does not dry out and shrink: Method one: Keep fluid in the flask at all times, and keep the flask on its side to ensure the cork remains wet. Method two: Fill the flask to the brim with fluid and close. Leave it like this overnight, or 24 hours if possible, before use. Condition This antique hip flask...

Indulge in the timeless luxury of this early 20th century American sterling silver barware / tableware cordial's service, designed to cater to the refined tastes of ten people. Imme...