Metal Bottle Opener Grape #98 by Kitamura Ichiro (北村一朗)

This work was created by the renowned metalwork artist Kitamura Ichiro (北村一朗, 1917–1968), father and master of Kitamura Shinichi, a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure).

Like the butterfly bottle opener we looked at earlier, this grape-shaped bottle opener is a masterpiece that combines art and practicality. Each grape cluster has a silver outline and is expressed with a hollowed-out, openwork-like structure. This structure allows light to pass through while maintaining the solid feel of the material, giving it a light impression as an ornamental piece for the dining table. The reverse side serves as a functional bottle opener, completing the whole piece as a practical tool.

This piece, which combines Kitamura Ichiro's advanced techniques with the artistic sensibility cultivated through traditional craft exhibitions, is a special masterpiece that adds a touch of Japanese craftsmanship and playfulness to the scene of opening fruit liquors such as sake and wine, or beer as a whisky chaser. The box is inscribed with the character "Grape" and the artist's name, certifying that it is an authentic piece.

• Artist: Kitamura Ichiro (北村一朗, 1917–1968)
• The artist's representative activities: [1967] 14th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education Award
  
• Year of production: 1960s (estimated)
• Condition: Very good (no chips or cracks)
• Accessories: Dedicated box included
• Material: Copper (estimated)
  
• Dimensions: Approx. 6cm
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