Superb and rare Japanese Meiji Period .950 silver creamer jug with bamboo motifs by Konoike

Superb and rare Japanese Meiji Period .950 silver creamer jug with bamboo motifs, made by the great Yokohama silversmith Konoike 鴻池 circa 1900s. Little is known about this maker’s life; however his works were in Jungin which would be .950 silver purity and working in silver of such purity requires great skill, such that many silver workshops of that time were run by former samurai. In London his pieces, particularly the tea and coffee services for which he is known, were retailed by Liberty & Co.

Konoike’s works are extremely rare, and much of his surviving work is in museums around the world such as the Victoria & Albert museum in London.

Price marked at $2000 AUD.

Measurements: 5.5cm high, 6cm base dia., 11.5cm length from handle to tip of spout. 90grams.

Very good antique condition, marked 鴻池造 (Konoike zo, i.e. made by Konoike) to base. Superficial dings to base as pictured. Marks crisp and clear.