Antique Spoon (approx. 11.5 cm, Meiji period) featuring a butterfly sipping nectar, with a water bird preying on it.

This is likely a brass medicine spoon from the late Meiji to early Showa period (around 1900-1935).

The decoration is exquisite. To me, it looks like a scene of a butterfly sipping nectar from a flower, with a water bird aiming for it from afar.

The blackness of the surface suggests it was likely brass that was plated with silver-colored plating (nickel or tin-based) at the time. It was probably intended to convey cleanliness = silver color.

Meaning of flowers and butterflies (as motifs of the time)
This combination was quite standard in crafts from the Meiji to early Showa periods.

Flowers:
Stylized versions of chrysanthemum, peony, cherry blossoms, etc.
Symbolize life, rebirth, longevity.

Butterflies:
Symbolize change, rebirth (pupa to adult).
Symbolize the soul, recovery.
A motif of good fortune.

Combined, they represent recovery, rebirth, longevity, which is highly compatible with medicine and healing.

Birds also symbolize:
Phoenix → Rebirth, longevity
Auspicious birds → Good fortune
Symbolize healing and extending life, making them compatible with medicinal tools.

Medicinal tools of that era were surprisingly artistic.
In Chinese medicine pharmacies, private clinics, and drugstores, they emphasized auspicious motifs, cleanliness, elegance, and making a good impression on visitors.

Therefore, even practical items were decorated.

Having a beautiful spoon in daily life can be enjoyable. It also makes a novel gift.

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