A superb and rare gold inlaid iron jubako (lunch box) by Komai of Kyoto

A superb and rare gold inlaid iron jubako (lunch box) by Komai of Kyoto
Of typical form with three stacking trays secured by a hinged arm which locks into an oval carrying handle, the whole intricately decorated with profuse inlays of various shades of gold and silver, depicting 21 famous shrines and temples, each one labelled in a cartouche, all on a ground of brocade patterns, floral roundels and fans. Signed Dai Nihon Kyoto Komai-Sei with Raku seal. On the original carved wood stand.

Provenance: Footnote: Works by Komai are highly prized for the intricacy of the damascening and the minute accuracy of the landscapes depicted over these small and compact works of art. All major collectors of Meiji metalwork strive to acquire works by Komai as can be seen in the The Nasser Khalili Collection of Japanese Art -Metalwork part 1, Kibo Foundation, London, 1995, which illustrates several such pieces, although none of this unusual shape.

Signed/Inscribed: Dai Nihon Kyoto Komai-Sei