When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Exceptional vintage Japanese 950 silver lighter featuring an elaborate hand-worked scene inspired by the art of Katsushika Hokusai.
The solid silver outer case is clearly stamped SILVER 950, indicating 95% pure silver—higher silver content than standard .925 sterling silver.
The front features a beautifully detailed Japanese landscape with Mount Fuji, traditional figures, trees and architecture, enhanced with contrasting gold-tone mixed-metal accents. The reverse carries the Japanese 北斎 (Hokusai) inscription, indicating the decorative composition/design is after or inspired by Katsushika Hokusai. Hokusai is the artistic source of the design; the actual silversmith/maker is presently unknown.
Measurements: approximately 2 1/8” × 1 1/2”
Weight with insert: approximately 60.66 grams
950 silver outer case weight: approximately 33 grams without the removable insert.
The removable windproof-style lighter insert is included. It has not been represented as a Zippo, as no Zippo marking has been confirmed.
A particularly attractive example of vintage Japanese silverwork combining high-grade .950 silver, finely engraved pictorial decoration, Mount Fuji imagery, Hokusai influence and mixed-metal detailing.
The silver has not been aggressively polished, preserving the natural patina, surface character and contrast of the engraved and mixed-metal decoration. Please examine all photographs closely for condition and details.
A striking collectible piece of Japanese decorative metalwork—not simply a silver lighter.