We have delved into the vault for our object of the month for July.

We are delighted to showcase this masterful Japanese Meiji-era (1868-1912) Iron and multi-metal charger signed Komai and depicting the dramatic scene as a giant Sea Eagle attempts to steal the days catch from a fishing village.

As always, you can click on any of the images below for a closer look at the piece.

One of our favourite works of art in our collection of Chinese and Japanese Fine Art and Antiques, this large, (46cm across) Iron charger by Komai is a wonderful example of both Meiji-era (1868-1912) master-craftsmanship and the famous Japanese morbid sense of  humour.

The scene, a typical, peaceful Japanese fishing village. The fishermen have just returned at the end of a long day on the water with a considerable catch just a giant Sea Eagle appears from the skies  above.

Chaos ensues as the winged-beast scoops up the nets in its talons sending the slippery haul flying in all directions. Nearby villagers rush to help the fishermen try and salvage their catch.

A horse, spooked by sudden arrival of the Eagle and presumably confused by the presence of an Octopus on its back, brays violently whilst two fishermen desperately cling onto a rope attached to the end of the net.

Some of the fish and a solitary fortunate squid have even unwittingly found themselves flung back to the relative safety of the shallow waters. All of this chaos takes place under the silently stoic watch of Mt Fuji.

The Charger is decorated with fine inlaid and relief decoration in precious metals including Gold, Silver, Shakudō, (an alloy of Gold and Copper), Shibuichi, (an alloy of Silver and Copper) and Copper.

The Komai workshop is internationally renowned for their production of fine damascene work.

Before the ascension of Emperor Meiji, the Kyoto-based Komai Company specialised in fine, decorative sword fittings for the Samurai. When the carrying of swords was banished during the Meiji restoration, Komai turned their hand to creating exquisite artworks to appeal to the fast-growing export market.

The workshop is perhaps best known for its mastery of Zogan (Damascene), a beautiful and complex, traditional craft which involves inlaying precious metal wires into a base material. This technique became so popular that the phrase “Komai-style” has been coined by dealers and collectors worldwide to describe damascene works produced by other studios.

You can view a selection of Komai and “Komai-style” works available on our website by clicking here or on the image below.

We hope you enjoyed this article. You can browse through over 100 short-read blogs inspired by our collection of Chinese and Japanese Fine Art and Antiques by clicking here.