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Vintage Japanese Damascene Mixed Metal Cigarette / Card Case - Mount Fuji & Rickshaw Scene
Up for sale is a beautiful mid-century vintage Japanese Damascene (Komai style) cigarette and pocket card case, dating roughly from the 1930s to the 1950s.
This highly detailed piece features masterfully executed 24K gold and silver inlaid artwork on a dark mixed-metal chassis. The main scene depicts a traditional barefoot rickshaw driver pulling a passenger carrying a yellow parasol, set against a stunning landscape view of Mount Fuji, lakeside pagodas, and traditional trees.
Specifications & Features:
• Motif: Mount Fuji, traditional lakeside pagodas, and a classic rickshaw scene.
• Materials: Mixed metals with fine 24K gold and silver foil detailing.
• Versatility: Perfectly sized to be used by modern collectors as a unique vintage pocket wallet container for business cards, credit cards, or folded cash notes.
Condition Details:
• Interior: Near-pristine internal condition. Remarkably, BOTH original gold-toned spring-loaded retention bars remain fully intact, springy, and securely attached to the frame. The matte inner finish is exceptionally clean with no rust or corrosion.
• Exterior Front: The front inlaid artwork is beautifully preserved, and the 24K gold foil work remains bright, vibrant, and striking.
• Exterior Back: The solid back panel shows typical signs of historical age and storage, including superficial surface scuffs, rubbing, and minor patches of natural metal pitting/oxidation (clearly pictured).
• Hardware: The hinge operates smoothly across the full length, and the front push-button catch clicks shut firmly and securely.
Postage: Heavily padded in protective bubble wrap and sent via a rigid box using tracked Australia Post standard mail. International buyers are very welcome!
