I-Hada Bottle Opener, Mikaduki (Crescent Moon)

A sand-cast bottle opener from a foundry which began working in 1897 in the city of Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, Japan, originally in the production of buddhist altarpieces. This Mikaduki, or Moon design forms a beautiful crescent, the ends of which fit over the lid to be removed, whilst the wider section is held in the hand. The cast shape is polished to a high finish, giving the form a simple beauty, enhanced by its solidity and weight in the hand. Designed by Oji Masanori. About 65mm in diameter by 10mm.