Japanese Gilt Silver Cup or Bowl by Miyamoto Shoko, Meiji Period
Hollowware/Tea Service (Cup or Presentation Bowl) · Miyamoto Shoko (宮本商行), Tokyo. A prestigious Japanese silversmith founded in 1880, known as an official purveyor to the Imperial Household of Japan.
Pattern: Traditional Japanese Gilt-Wash (Vermeil) Circular Form, likely part of an Imperial presentation or high-end tea set.
Type
Hollowware/Tea Service (Cup or Presentation Bowl)
Maker
Miyamoto Shoko (宮本商行), Tokyo. A prestigious Japanese silversmith founded in 1880, known as an official purveyor to the Imperial Household of Japan.
Material
High-grade Silver (likely .950 or Sterling .925) with a heavy interior gold wash (Vermeil). Base is pure silver.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter 8-12cm, height 4-6cm. Weight approximately 120-180g in troy silver content.
Description
An elegant, understated Japanese silver bowl featuring a luminous gold-washed interior. Miyamoto Shoko's work is characterized by the 'Jun-gin' purity stamp, representing silver quality higher than standard sterling. The piece exemplifies the restrained luxury favored by the Japanese elite and the Imperial court during the early 20th century.
Key Features
Jun-gin (Pure Silver) mark, deep gold vermeil interior, official Miyamoto Shoko cartouche, and hand-raised construction.
Material & Composition
High-grade Silver (likely .950 or Sterling .925) with a heavy interior gold wash (Vermeil). Base is pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish to the exterior, interior features a rich gold-gilt (vermei) finish. Late Meiji/Taisho period style emphasizing clean lines and material purity.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The hallmark is a horizontal 'Jun-gin' (純銀) mark in a rectangular cartouche, meaning 'Pure Silver', flanked by the maker's logo (Miyamoto Shoko, often depicted as a stylized 'M' or the word 'Miyamoto' in kanji).
Construction Details
Hand-raised from a flat sheet of silver, evidenced by the slight variations in the foot ring and the seamless transition of the bowl walls. Spun finishing used for final polish.
Functional Features
Wide rim for drinking or presentation, raised foot ring for heat dissipation, and interior gilding to prevent acidic corrosion and metallic taste.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This appears to be a handleless vessel (Chawan style or presentation bowl).
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional. The wall thickness is consistent, and the striking of the hallmark is deep and crisp, indicating a high-level master smith's intervention.
Authentication Indicators
The specific layout of the 'Jun-gin' stamp within the rectangular box is consistent with early 20th-century Miyamoto Shoko production. Wear patterns on the foot rim suggest authentic age.
Origin & Manufacturing
Tokyo, Japan. Miyamoto Shoko workshop, recognized for maintaining the highest standards of Japanese 'Jun-gin' craftsmanship.
Era & Period
Meiji Period (1868-1912) to Early Taisho Period. Reflects the transition from traditional Japanese metalwork to Western-influenced silver standards.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1920 based on the 'Jun-gin' mark style and the reputation of the workshop during the peak of Meiji production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Yobitsugi' (Western-Eastern) fusion era where Japanese silver was crafted to compete with top European houses like Tiffany and Cartier.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The interior gilt shows some minor spotting/oxidation ('age spots'). Surface shows moderate micro-scratching (swirl marks) from polishing. No visible dents.
Value Estimate
$350 - $650 USD depending on the specific weight and presence of original wooden 'Tomobako' (signed box).
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand wash only. Use high-quality silver cream like Hagerty on the exterior but avoid abrasive polishing on the interior gilt, as it can wear through the thin gold layer.
Similar Pieces
Konoike or Asahi Shoten silver bowls. Miyamoto pieces generally command a premium due to the Imperial connection.
Interesting Facts
Miyamoto Shoko was the first company in Japan to achieve the status of 'Purveyor to the Imperial Household' for silverware, making their pieces highly collectible and historically significant.