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Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
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Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin

  • Imperial Court Artist Unno Shomin created this sake set from 99.9% pure silver with gold inlay
  • The set includes a sake pot, three silver cups, lacquerware tray, stand and tomobako (wooden box)
  • It is decorated with symbolic motifs of cranes, chrysanthemums, pine and bamboo
  • This beautiful set reflects the fusion of artistry and functionality characteristic of the Meiji period
  • Get complete item description here
$28,500
Item No. 32-0435

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Description
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set
Unno Shomin
Meiji period, late 19th century

This extraordinary sake set exemplifies the pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship, created by the esteemed Unno Shomin, an Imperial Court Artist celebrated for his masterful metalwork and lacquer artistry. Crafted from 99.9% pure silver, this set is adorned with intricate gold inlay and complemented by a lacquered tray and stand, embodying the harmonious balance of functionality and aesthetic refinement that defines Japan's artistic. . .
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Silver and Lacquer Sake Set
Unno Shomin
Meiji period, late 19th century

This extraordinary sake set exemplifies the pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship, created by the esteemed Unno Shomin, an Imperial Court Artist celebrated for his masterful metalwork and lacquer artistry. Crafted from 99.9% pure silver, this set is adorned with intricate gold inlay and complemented by a lacquered tray and stand, embodying the harmonious balance of functionality and aesthetic refinement that defines Japan's artistic heritage.

The sake pot and cups are decorated with delicate motifs of cranes, chrysanthemums, pine and bamboo, symbolizing longevity, resilience and good fortune. Shomin's signature techniques, katakiri-bori (angled carving) and hira-zōgan (flat inlay), are meticulously employed, creating a sense of depth and texture that enhances the visual appeal. The shimmering silver surfaces contrast elegantly with the rich gold details, while the lacquered tray and stand provide a striking foundation for the set.

Unno Shomin's distinction as an Imperial Court Artist underscores his unparalleled expertise and influence within the Meiji period artistic milieu. His ability to seamlessly fuse silver, gold and lacquer elevated him to the highest echelons of Japanese artisans. This sake set, still preserved in its original tomobako (wooden box), reflects the legacy of Shomin's craftsmanship and his contribution to Japan's cultural heritage.

 6“ high x 14 7/8” wide x 13 1/8“ deep
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Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
Period: 19th Century
Origin: Asia
Type: Other
Depth: 13.13 in. (33.34 cm)
Width: 14.88 in. (37.78 cm)
Height: 6.0 in. (15.24 cm)
Silver and Lacquer Sake Set by Unno Shomin
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Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

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M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

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