Antique Japanese Damascene gold and silver on steel chatelaine purse with compact. Made during the Meiji era circa 1900. 

Measures 3 7/8 X 2 5/8 inches. 

Japanese Damascene work as done by Komai, - gold and silver threads and etching on a steel plate, in the form of a ladies' chatelaine purse. Suspended on a chain with a ring for holding on a finger. Hinged box shape with thumbpiece in front. The entire surface outside is richly decorated, with no differentiation between top and bottom.
One side shows a large building - luxurious and large, in the midst of superb gardens overflowing with flowers, trees and landscaping. The border of this scene is classic Japanese flowers - peonies, chrysanthemums etc. The reverse depicts a huge exotic bird - feathers fanned out against a swirling background. The sides are equally full of gold against black decoration. Very fine detail and outstanding workmanship. 

Inside the purse has a bevelled mirror (in immaculate shape) and two gold-washed compartments, each with a Damascene vignette: the upper one depicts another bird, the lower, Mt Fuji in a marvellous landscape with bonsai-like trees, fences and pagodas. The inside lid is dark brown/black. 

There is a hand-engraved number near the edge, inside. 

Workmanship is exquisite. Detail is incredibly rich. The gold tones vary - shimmering and shining as the light catches their cut and engraved surfaces. 

Good condition. No damage/restoriaton of any sort was found.