Victorian Unusual Brass Shakudo Ring Box

Shakudo is the use of mixed metal alloys and was originally used in Japanese armor and swords. Artisans would sometimes remove the Shakudo plaques from the armor and incorporate it into jewelry or art. It has become very collectible and quite unusual.

This beautiful ring box is very unusual and most likely from the Victorian era (ca1880-1900). The box, which is made of brass, has rounded corners and is square in shape. The surface has an etched woodgrain design on 5 sides and a tree branch image on the top. On each outside face of the piece is a mixed metal Shakudo plaque, which was probably removed from a sword or armor. The raised Shakudo images depict a different yet equally charming picture with birds, flowers, a basket and branches. It's a fabulous piece and would be the perfect box to place a beautiful Shakudo ring inside.

Measurements: The box measures approximately 1 1/2" long, 1 3/8" wide and 1 3/8" tall.

Condition: The overall condition of the ring box is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the brass box. There is a single flower missing from the raised plaque design, but besides this, there is no additional damage to the mixed metal Shakudo figures. The box hinge is secure and in good working condition.