

Antique Mixed Metal Match Safe
Antique Japanese Daruma Match Safe | Signed
Age:Meiji/Taisho Period
Descriptive qualities& condition:
Dimensions: 2-3/4”h x 2.0”w x 1/2”d
Offered is an antique Japanese Shibuichi, (Copper-silver-gold alloy), in the form of a Daruma Match case which is patinated in a range of subtle silver and copper muted shades with gold highlights accents. Daruma, (Bodhidharma), according to tradition transmitted Chan Buddhism to China and Japan. He is dressed in his hooded robe with accented large ear loops, holding a Hossu (fly whisk), while supposedly engaged in “pure conversation” with followers. His eyes are highlighted in a gold wash. This patina has been formed from years of oxidation and handling but it appears that the artist-applied patination remains beautifully intact which adds to its character all executed in high relief. It was purchased at a fundraising auction in 1980 at the Hōrin-ji, (Daruma-dera) and has remained in a private collection. The owner has displayed the piece on an antique miniature stand which will be transferred with the piece.
The match safe has an incised mark on the back which we do not think represented the maker. Most match safes have no signatures because they were made for export, and the craftsman was in the employ of a daimyo or shogun and did not sign his name to the item. In a sense, this follows the old tradition that they dare not sign their work as their employers were responsible for all of their worldly needs and utterly ruled their lives. It would have been disrespectful for the maker to sign his name to a commissioned piece.
Condition: Excellent condition for the safe is perfect, with no scratches, or missing elements, lid and hinge device functions perfectly with all mechanical elements, and is in perfectly cared condition. It has a beautiful aged finish, retaining the original craftsmanship. Meets the standards of the collector of Japanese religious arts.