Type: Fuchi Material: Shakudō (copper–gold alloy) with gold inlay Mass: 12.8 g Internal Dims (mm): 35.3Lx20.7Wx9D
The fuchi is decorated with boldly carved waves, their curling crests rendered in relief across the surface. Scattered throughout the design are small, round gold inlays (shizuku-zōgan), evoking flecks of spray or perhaps stars beyond the restless sea. The combination of flowing water and shining points suggests both motion and atmosphere, merging the earthly and the celestial.
The carving is deeply cut with strong linework, giving the waves dynamic energy. The shakudō alloy retains a fine black patina that contrasts with the bright gold inlays, enhancing the impression of movement. The lovely ground texture resembles something like leather-texture.
Wave motifs were a recurring theme in Edo-period fittings, favored both for their martial symbolism: resilience, force, and impermanence, and for their decorative beauty. The treatment of the waves here, with tightly curling ridges and flowing horizontal lines, suggests influence from the Mito and Shoami schools, both of which were active in producing fittings of this type. This piece exemplifies mid-to-late Edo period tastes for combining bold carving with sparing but vivid use of gold.
