Hand-Chased Japanese Repoussé Sterling Silver Tea/Sugar Bowl by K. Uyeda
Hollowware (Sugar Bowl / Open Bowl) · K. Uyeda (Uyeda Shoten), Tokyo, Japan. Established in 1884, Uyeda is one of Japan's most prestigious silversmiths, famous for serving the Imperial Household and producing high-quality export silver.
Pattern: Chrysanthemum and Phoenix / Traditional Japanese Botanical. This is a classic Meiji-influenced floral pattern featuring deeply chased chrysanthemums (Kiku).
Type
Hollowware (Sugar Bowl / Open Bowl)
Maker
K. Uyeda (Uyeda Shoten), Tokyo, Japan. Established in 1884, Uyeda is one of Japan's most prestigious silversmiths, famous for serving the Imperial Household and producing high-quality export silver.
Material
Sterling Silver (minimum .925 purity, often tested higher in Japanese pieces). Solid silver construction throughout.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 4-5 inches; height of 3 inches. Approximate weight between 180-250 grams depending on whether it is a single bowl or part of a larger set.
Description
A stunning example of Japanese silver craftsmanship, this bowl features the iconic Chrysanthemum motif. The high-relief floral work is exceptionally crisp, demonstrating the 'meatiness' of the silver. The three-footed design gives it an elegant, elevated profile, while the K. Uyeda mark ensures a lineage of imperial quality.
Key Features
Deep high-relief repoussé work; the 'K. UYEDA' brand name; tripod feet with floral shoulders; surviving original paper export label which is rare for used silver pieces.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (minimum .925 purity, often tested higher in Japanese pieces). Solid silver construction throughout.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief repoussé and hand-chasing. Features traditional Japanese chrysanthemum blossoms with finely stippled backgrounds to create depth. Mirror-polished base with an oxidized/patinated finish in the recessed floral details.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'STERLING' mark clearly visible in a rectangular cartouche; 'K. UYEDA' maker's mark; 'MADE IN JAPAN' paper export label still attached. The hallmark style is typical of mid-20th century Japanese export silver.
Construction Details
Raised and chased by hand. The body shows evidence of hand-hammering (planishing) on the interior, with the floral motifs pushed out from the inside (repoussé) and refined from the outside (chasing). Feet are cast and silver-soldered to the base.
Functional Features
Three-legged tripod base for stability; flared rim for easy access; open-top design suitable for sugar cubes or as a decorative Finger Bowl.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Open bowl design), though the three cast feet act as the primary structural grips/attachments.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior hand-chasing. The 'stippled' background behind the flowers is done with a single-point punch, a labor-intensive process that indicates high-end Tokyo workshop quality.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmarks are consistent with known K. Uyeda stamps (font and spacing); construction shows genuine hand-work rather than modern casting; weight feels appropriate for sterling hollowware.
Origin & Manufacturing
Tokyo, Japan. Manufactured in the K. Uyeda workshop using traditional metalworking techniques combined with modern purity standards.
Era & Period
Showa Era (post-WWII period), specifically c. 1950-1970, evidenced by the specific 'Made in Japan' label and the 'Sterling' English-language stamps used for the American occupancy and export market.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1960. The presence of the blue and white 'Made in Japan' paper sticker suggests it was likely sold in a Post Exchange (PX) or exported shortly after WWII.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Export Silver' period where Japanese artisans adapted traditional motifs (like the Imperial Chrysanthemum) for Western functional forms like sugar bowls and tea sets.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Light surface scratches (swirl marks) consistent with gentle polishing. No major dents or significant silver loss. Tarnish is minimal. The paper label is a unique 'time capsule' feature.
Value Estimate
$350 - $600 USD. Value is driven by the prestige of the Uyeda name and the weight of the silver.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's or Hagerty. Avoid silver dips which can strip the intentional oxidation in the floral crevices. Remove the paper label before washing if preservation isn't a priority, though it adds 'provenance' value.
Similar Pieces
Asahi Shoten sterling bowls; Samurai Shokai repoussé silver; Sanborns Mexican repoussé (which is heavier and more rustic).
Interesting Facts
K. Uyeda is the oldest silversmithing shop in Japan and was the first to use the 'Sterling' mark to appeal to Western diplomats and tourists in the late 19th century.