Metalwork items were among the Japanese crafts that found popularity at international expositions and successful foreign markets during this period. The metal-working tradition continued from the Edo period, but craftsmen who had previously catered to Buddhist temples now found employment creating ornamental pieces for exhibitions or for domestic use. The pieces for inclusion in international expositions tended to be large to grab attention, as well as technically impressive.

The forms of ancient bronzes, in particular the renowned Chinese examples, provided immediately recognisable and viable models for modern production. However, early works often employed narrative scenes with figures in their decoration, an approach not seen before on metalwork. The subjects were chosen for their dramatic visual appeal rather than any particular symbolism. Over time forms of vessels became more elaborate and the surface decoration was increasingly intricate.

These elaborate works were cast using the lost-wax technique. In this method, a clay model is covered in layers of wax and then a layer of clay. When the clay is fired, the wax melts and drains away leaving a hollow space. Molten bronze is poured in to fill this space, resulting in a finished object.