A charming and unusually compact antique Japanese brass vesta case, most likely dating to the late Meiji period, circa 1900, beautifully decorated with sparrows amongst bamboo.

Despite measuring only 4.7cm tall, this wonderfully tactile little vesta is remarkably detailed. The front and reverse carry the same delightful scene of two sparrows in flight amongst sprays of bamboo, their feathers individually worked in raised relief against the darkly patinated background.

The bamboo theme continues around the perimeter, where the edges of the case have been cleverly modelled to resemble jointed bamboo canes, creating a beautifully cohesive design. Even the hinged lid forms part of the scene, with the upper sparrow extending across it amongst finely detailed bamboo leaves.

Sparrows and bamboo are a traditional subject within Japanese art, appearing for centuries in Japanese painting and decorative arts and forming part of the wider kachōga, or bird-and-flower, tradition. The combination gives this tiny utilitarian object the character of a miniature Japanese work of art.

The hinged lid operates well and closes firmly and snugly over the match compartment, while the underside incorporates the original ribbed match-striking surface.

The brass has developed an attractive dark patina within the recessed areas, contrasting beautifully with the naturally highlighted raised decoration and emphasising the detail of the birds, feathers and bamboo.

I have been unable to locate a maker's mark or signature. Stylistically, the piece is consistent with Japanese decorative metalwork produced around the turn of the 20th century, particularly during the late Meiji period.

A beautiful and highly collectable miniature vesta with appeal to collectors of Japanese Meiji metalwork, antique match safes, bird and sparrow collectables, bamboo-themed antiques and miniature decorative objects.

🔸 Measures 4.7cm x 3cm x 1cm - weight 12.92g approx.

Antique used condition with age-related surface wear, patination and marks commensurate with age. The hinge operates well and the lid closes snugly. Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

🔸 Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description and condition.

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SKU: NS7442