Antique Japanese Asian High Relief 3D Dragons & Bamboo Groves Metal Trinket Box.
Very nice intricate cast relief repousse work, the dragons are very realistic.
The metal feels very heavy & is therefore most likely a lead based spelter. At one time the whole box was silvered, but this has worn away other than on the inside. The resulting patina is very nice though & I prefer to the silvered effect.
Some of these were also used as cigarette or tobacco boxes.
9.8x6.5x3 cms approximately.
Good condition, hinge is secure.
No visible artisan makers marks that I can see.