A BRONZE & SILVER GOURD YATATEA BRONZE & SILVER GOURD YATATEJapan, Edo period, 18th - earlier 19th century. This finely cast miniature travel writing set, yatate, shows a gourd with silver vines and raised leafage, the latter with dew drops inlaid also in silver, and neatly incised veining. Underneath the largest leaf hides the inkwell. The screw top holds the expandable brush and bears a hinge for suspension. LENGTH 8.5 cmWEIGHT 45.1 gramsProvenance: British private collection. Acquired from a US collector in 2015.Condition: Excellent condition with only minor wear, good patina, the screw on top slightly worn down.