A superb Japanese silver and enamel buckle, Sanju Saku

Price: £950

A wonderful Japanese meiji period silver and enamel buckle. In excellent original condition with minor enamel losses only (not noticeable). both pieces are marked to the back with the turtle mark of Sanju Saku.  Sanju Saku would appear to mean “made by Sanju” and the turtle mark is a play on the Sanju name which can mean longevity – for which turtles are famous in Japanese mythology.  Little is known of the maker except that he consistently produces some of the finest Meiji silver, often with enamel, using floral and animal motifs, as for these buckles.  Likely he was working for the export market from Yokahama.

Maker:  Sanju Saku

Designer:  Sanju Saku (presumed)

Date: c. 1900

Marks: Turtle in triangle

Material: Sterling silver (or better), enamel

Condition: Excellent, tiny enamel losses

Size: 8 cm diameter

Weight: 36 grams, 1.3 oz