The lid features a stunning reverse-carved Essex crystal depicting a group of Mallard ducks taking flight from their rush nests as a fox leaps at them. This is certainly one of the most detailed Essex crystals we've seen, with amazing detail. The paint is applied thinly so the water has a very realistic, limpid appearance against the more solid textures of fur, feathers and rushes. The crystal is backed with mother-of-pearl.

The box's interior is lined with mahogany panels. The bottom of the box is made of gold-plated metal rather than solid 14K, for added strength. The sides, lid and feet, however, are entirely worked in 14K gold. The bottom edge is hallmarked "Marcus & Co. New York 14KT". Marcus & Co. was one of the most important American jewelry houses from the late 19th through the mid-20th centuries. It was in direct competition for both designers and clients with other makers such as Tiffany & Co. John D. Rockefeller was one of Marcus' largest clients.

Elegant glassware was a luxury and even the wealthy didn’t have enough to provide a fresh glass with each different wine course during a formal dinner. The monteith or verriere contained water, and the guests’ glasses could be hung from the notched rim to be rinsed in the communal bath. Sometimes, the vessel was filled with cold water and the glasses were simply hung there to be chilled before the service.

The front of the blade is engraved in a pattern of prunus blossoms and bamboo. A single swallow appears near the upper tip. The reverse of the blade is engraved a seascape showing the rising sun (a traditional emblem of Japan) over the waves. The pair of cranes appear to be playing on a rocky outcropping.

Mixed metal wares, such as shibuichi and shakudo, were highly popular after the end of the Samurai era, when sword and armor makers turned their skills toward producing household goods of exceptional beauty and refinement.