Vintage Amita Japan Damascene Fan Necklace

Description
A 1950s–1960s Amita damascene necklace of five graduated folding fans, each inlaid in gold and silver against a deep black ground. The panels show blossoms, a pagoda, and waterside scenes, while the gilt reverse is hand-engraved with its own set of images, including a sailing junk, Mount Fuji, and a butterfly. Amita of Kyoto is the best-known name in Japanese damascene, a craft in which fine metal is hammered into blackened steel. A collectible piece that sits beautifully at the collarbone.

Materials
Gold-tone metal, damascene inlay in gold and silver tones on blackened steel

New chain

Details

• Era: 1950s–1960s
• Markings: Amita Japan on reverse of center panel
• Style / design notes: Five linked fan-shaped panels, graduated in size, decorated on both sides
• Function: Lobster clasp closure
• Color: Black, gold, silver
• Condition: Great vintage condition, light scratches to the gilt reverse
• Measurement: 18"

Collected by Mineral and Matter