Joseon Dynasty silver-inlaid iron tobacco box with cover
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
18th-19th century
This Joseon Dynasty tobacco box is crafted from iron and features extensive silver inlay, reflecting a tradition of high-quality metalwork used for storing tobacco by wealthy gentlemen.
The rectangular box is supported on four brass feet and includes a metal handle on one side. The exterior surfaces are elaborately decorated with silver-inlaid Chinese characters placed within rectangular panels, further enhanced by borders featuring detailed key-fret and floral diaper patterns. The cover is notably adorned with the 'Double Happiness' character. Internally, the box is finished with a wood lining. Measuring 11 x 7.4 x 6.8 cm and weighing 712 grams, this piece displays technical craftsmanship typical of 18th to 19th-century Korean metal objects.
Such containers were essential accessories for the tobacco culture that flourished in Korea following the introduction of the plant in the early seventeenth century. The combination of structural iron, precious silver inlay, and functional brass fittings highlights both the utilitarian purpose and the aesthetic refinement of the era.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Weight
- 712 g
- Material
- Iron, silver inlay, brass, wood
- Dimensions
- 11 x 7.4 x 6.8 cm
Design
- Motifs
- Chinese characters, key-fret, floral diaper
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.