This graceful butterfly-shaped bottle opener was created by the renowned metalwork artist Ichiro Kitamura (1917-1968), father and master of Shinichi Kitamura, a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure).
As can be seen from the attached biography, Ichiro Kitamura was born in the Taisho era, and after studying metalwork at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts (now Tokyo University of the Arts), he contributed to the development of Japan's traditional crafts world, winning numerous prizes and selections at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition and Bunten Exhibition. His advanced techniques and artistry have also been highly praised by the government, including winning the Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education Award at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.
This piece is designed in the shape of a simple butterfly, and is characterized by the soft shine of the material and its rounded shape, which delicately change their appearance depending on the angle from which you view it.The back of the bottle is equipped with a functional handle and bottle opener mechanism that support the beautiful curves of the butterfly's wings, and is engraved with the artist's signature, the letter "K."
This piece is both practical and charming enough to decorate the dining table, and also serves as an elegant tool for enjoying whiskey with a beer chaser.It is a masterpiece that combines the triple value of artistry, practicality, and a place in the history of Japanese metalwork.
- Artist: Kitamura Ichiro (1917-1968)
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The artist's representative activities: [1967] 14th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education Award
- Production year: 1960s (estimated)
- Condition: Very good (no chips or cracks)
- Accessories: Dedicated box included
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Material: Copper (estimated)
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Dimensions: Approx. 6cm
- Please note: Even if the products we offer are brand new and unused, they are very old and are listed as second-hand items. Please note that the products may have damage due to aging, so please understand and check before purchasing.
