Japanese pair of silver shibayama vases late Meiji period

Japanese pair of silver shibayama vases with kinji gold lacquer bodies each finely inlaid in mother-of-pearl, ivory, coconut shell and coral with ikebana baskets and flowers design, applied with silver star shoulder bands and engraved motifs. The sides applied with silver bamboo handles and scrolled bamboo feet, late Meiji period 1868-1912.

Ikebana 生け花 is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. It was first introduced around the 6th century by Buddhist priests as offerings to honour Buddha. In the 14th century it became fashionable with the aristocracy to display ikebana arrangements in their homes. The spiritual aspect is considered very important to its practitioners, even the Samurai before going into battle would perform this art and believed that this connection with nature would purify their minds.

All our pieces come with a BADA Certificate of Provenance (The British Antiques Dealer's Association) and are inclusive of free worldwide shipping & insurance.

UK Ivory Act 2018 Exemption Submission Reference- XY2MSUBA