Carved lid with ayu fish swimming in a river, wooden tobacco case, Showa retro, antique

This is a woodwork item featuring a lid with a three-dimensional carved design of swimming ayu (sweetfish) on a gold plate etched with the flow of the river. It is a small container with a retro, Japanese antique atmosphere from the Taisho and Showa periods.

Considering the era it was produced, it is likely a cigarette case that would have been placed on a coffee table in a reception room.

This slim, small box was found in a drawer where gifts were stored. It is unused, with no signs of use by family members who do not smoke. However, there are stains and minor scratches on the plate, as well as cracks in the hinge bearings. Therefore, it is being listed as a junk item with scratches.

There is an inscription on the back commemorating a company anniversary. Research indicates that it was likely presented to stakeholders around the late 1970s to early 1980s.

Based on amateur assessment:
The metal lid is non-magnetic, suggesting it is brass with silver plating.
There is no warranty card for this product, and details are unknown.
Similar items can be found through searches (please search if interested), but this item has no warranty card or recorded information, so it is uncertain if it is the same product.

Condition:
The surface of the metal plate had stains and dirt due to age-related deterioration, but it has been cleaned to the extent that it does not cause scratches.
Also, one side of the wooden hinge bearing has a crack. Considering the risk of further problems, it has not been repaired and has only been lightly cleaned.

Dimensions:
Length 20.3 cm x Depth 8.8 cm x Height 2 cm

As shown in the photos,
the detailed craftsmanship of the ayu conveys a sense of luxury.
The storage condition is not ideal, but rather than letting it deteriorate further by keeping it, I am listing it for a collector who can appreciate its value.

Please examine the photos for details and consider this item.

#Three-dimensional carved ayu
#Etched river flow
#Craftsmanship
#Luxurious small container
#Cigarette case
#Tobacco case
#Antique small item
#Taisho Roman
#Showa Retro