Murata - Kiseru Tobacco Set - Pipe - Wood, Silver, Textiles, Leather - (3)

Antique Japanese Tobacco Pipe Set Kiseru Silver Pouch Shibori Silk Meiji Era

Antique Japanese Miniature Tobacco Set — Silver Kiseru Pipe, Shibori Silk Pouch & Case, Signed Murata, Meiji Era

A rare and charming complete miniature Japanese tobacco set from the Meiji period, comprising a silver kiseru pipe, a silk tobacco pouch (tabako-ire), and a matching silk pipe case — all in the same distinctive purple shibori fabric.

✦ Kiseru Pipe (approx. 9.3 cm)
A finely made miniature kiseru in silver with a mottled bamboo (fu-chiku / rauo) stem. Despite its small size, the craftsmanship is equal to full-size examples. The bowl (hizara) features a hammered finish; the mouthpiece (suikuchi) is elegantly formed. Signed with two hallmarks: 文 (top) and 村田 (Murata, bottom) — confirming the maker. The pipe shows light use marks consistent with an object that was actually used and appreciated.

✦ Tobacco Pouch & Pipe Case (Tabako-ire & Kiseru-zutsu)
Both are made from the same delicate purple-and-cream shibori (tie-dye) silk — a refined choice of fabric. The tobacco pouch features a silver butterfly clasp (mae-kanagu) with partial gilding, and a shibuichi/silver combination back fitting (ura-za). The interior is lined with leather. The pipe case fits the kiseru perfectly.

✦ Rarity
Miniature tobacco sets of this quality are exceptionally rare. Full-size sets are common; this miniature format with matching shibori fabric across all three components and a signed silver pipe is highly unusual.

✦ Condition
Pre-owned. Silk shows discolouration, light wear, and soiling consistent with age. Kiseru shows minor dents from use. Silver fittings intact; hallmark clearly legible. All flaws shown in photos — please review all images before purchase.

✦ Shipping
Ships from Japan. Carefully packed with full insurance. Combined shipping available.

Japan Rare Archive
Kyoto-based specialist in authentic Japanese antiques. All items are genuine and sourced directly in Japan.