Magnificent Japanese Inlaid Jar from the Meiji Era Sells for $146,000

A notable inlaid iron jar and cover, decorated with intricate designs of birds and flowers representing the four seasons and commissioned by the renowned Meiji-era crafts entrepreneur Kawaguchi Yohei of Tokyo, sold for £114,700 ($146,000) at Bonhams New Bond Street.

The item significantly exceeded its estimated value of £50,000-80,000 ($63,000-102,000) during the Fine Japanese Art Sale, which featured Meiji Masterpieces from a Distinguished Deceased Estate this May. The auction comprised 166 lots, achieving a total of £1,065,816 ($1,363,000), with a remarkable 98% sold by value.

Suzannah Yip, Bonhams Department Director, Japanese Art commented, “This outstanding inlaid jar and cover is truly a masterpiece of dazzling craftsmanship and beauty, and we are delighted with the price it achieved. It is testimony to the remarkable skill of the master metalworker responsible for such a magnificent piece. Many of the pieces from the Ando Jubei Company also achieved impressive results.”

Other notable highlight from the auction included an exceptionally fine moriage cloisonné-enamel vase from the Ando Jubei Company, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century of the Meiji era (1868-1912). The vase, featuring vibrantly colored enamels depicting a persimmon tree laden with ripe fruit, sold for £53,740 ($68,000), exceeding its estimate of £30,000-50,000 ($38,000-63,000).

The auction underscored the enduring appeal and high value of fine Japanese art from the Meiji era, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship and artistic achievements of that period.

Founded in 1793, Bonhams has representatives in over 30 countries and operates flagship salerooms in London, New York, Paris, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong. It is a global network of auction houses boasting the largest number of international salerooms and offering the broadest range of collecting categories, catering to all price points. Recognized for its bespoke service and dedication to fostering local market relationships, Bonhams enhances its global platform. With 14 salerooms, Bonhams hosts over 1,000 sales annually, spanning more than 60 specialist categories such as fine art, collectibles, luxury items, wine & spirits, and collector cars.

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