Antique Japanese Meiji Bird Dragonfly Frog Beetle Bronze/Mixed Metal Inkwell

  

I inherited this Meiji-period inkwell. It has been lightly dusted but not cleaned it.

The lid is detached, but the hinges are intact and could possibly be repaired. There seems to be the owner's initials scratched into the lid. Please see a picture of the lid for details. Inside the well is a glass "lining" that I did not attempt to remove. Approximately 2.75" in diameter x 2.25" high.

I had this piece appraised online - value between 300-500. This is a fantastic piece with birds, a frog, a beetle, a bee, a dragonfly, and lily pads resting on a pumpkin/melon. Definitely a rare find for a discerning collector to own. Please ask if you have any questions or concerns.

See images for an accurate, visible description of the item.