Japanese Hikite / Door Pull Handle. Circa 1850.

Rare Japanese Hikite / Door Pull Handle with bird in high-relief. Circa 1850 (possibly earlier).

This small hikite is an ornamental door / cabinet handle. This example features an inlaid bird, and represents a masterful blend of architecture and traditional decorative metallurgy rendered in high relief (Takaniku-zogan), and visually striking against the dark metal.

*The bird is most likely a swallow (known as tsubame in Japanese), and represents one of the most beloved, poetic motifs in traditional Japanese architectural design. The swallow is deeply cherished as a harbinger of spring, good fortune, and domestic bliss. Traditionally believed to bring good luck, successful business, and family protection. Paired with a moon crescent (top left of hikite in recessed white enamel) and willow tree at the bottom of the hikite. This motif is called Tsuki ni Tsubame (Moon and Swallow) and carries deep cultural and artistic significance and highly popular during the Edo period (1603–1867).

Condition: Good original condition. Some surface corrosion commensurate with age. Bird in superb high-relief with gold lustre. The enamel moon (top left) in excellent condition. Museum/ Collection number 138 to reverse.

Dimensions:

Height = 7.5 cm

Width = 4.6 cm

Depth = 1.0 cm