This antique Japanese shakudo brooch gets more magnificent the closer you look at it, and is just as much a work of art, as it is a piece of jewellery.
Shakudo is an alloy of gold and copper, having around 4 to 10% gold and 90 to 96% copper, and was originally designed for swords such as the katana, and after the end of the samurai class grew obsolete, the shakudo masters turned their attention to jewellery, resulting in such a unique and distinct style of jewellery that is truly unto itself.
The brooch measures 60mm across by 37.5mm, and is highlighted with among other aspects, peacocks, butterflies and snails. All of these are important aspects of both Japanese and Buddhist culture, with the peacock representing longevity and wisdom, the snail tolerance, perseverance and fertility and butterflies among other aspects, death and rebirth.
This brooch is truly so unique and beautiful, and will surely become a family heirloom that will be loved and treasured.
Stock# ET327
Circa: 1870
$Sold.
Out of stock
Magnificent antique Japanese shakudo brooch made in the 1870's.
Shakudo is an alloy of gold and copper, having around 4 to 10% gold and 90 to 96% copper, and was originally designed for swords such as the katana (long sword) fittings and other pieces such as the kozuka (the grip of a small knife) Japanese swords, and after the end of the samurai class grew obsolete, the shakudo masters turned their attention to jewellery.
Click here to see a small selection of antique brooches that are currently in store:
https://www.kalmarantiques.com.au/product-category/antique/antique-brooch-antique/
