Shakudo Fan-Plaque Bracelet
$9,600
A Meiji Period Shakudo Fan-Plaque Bracelet with Silver Clasp and Chain
made in Japan, circa 1900
Originating in Japan, the art of Shakudo is a decorative technique for armor and for the traditional and formal swords (katana) fittings for the Samurai. The process uses a mixture of copper and gold (and traces of other metals) to produce an indigo and black patina on the surface.
Banned in 1876 by their government, armorial artisans turned to jewelry and other objects to continue this honorable and idyllic art form. Most often the jewelry seen today is made of various parts of these ornamental yet functional elements.
