Art of Chokin Porcelain Trinket Box with Swans, 24K Gold Rim – Vintage Japan 1980s–1990s, Gift Idea

A fine Japanese white porcelain trinket box whose lid shows a scene in the traditional Art of Chokin: two graceful swans on the water, framed by a 24-karat gold rim.

What Is Chokin?

Chokin is an ancient Japanese art of metal engraving in which copper is gilded with gold and silver. It was originally used to decorate the armor of samurai warriors. The original sticker explaining the technique and marked "Made in Japan" is still on the base.

Details & Condition

• Material: porcelain, Chokin metal inlay (copper, gold- and silver-gilded), 24K gold rim
• Diameter: approx. 7.5 cm (2.95 in)
• Height: approx. 3.5 cm (1.38 in)
• Origin: Japan
• Date: approx. 1980s–1990s
• Condition: good; porcelain without chips, cracks or damage, gold rim in great shape, original labels intact
• Note: a faint circular patina ring is visible on the metal lid inlay (left by a former label). Please see photos.

Uses

For rings, earrings or small keepsakes. Swans symbolize devotion and lifelong love – a lovely gift for a wedding, anniversary or Christmas.

Care

Dust dry; not dishwasher safe.

We found this little box at the Megaflohmarkt in Vienna, among pocket watches and brooches. In all those years, the swans never turned away from each other.

Two swans, one promise — Things with Soul · VintageAustriaShop