Pair of Antique Chinese Cloisonné Bronze Cylinder Vases Qing Dynasty, Kangxi Period

Details

Description

Pair of Chinese Cloisonné Bronze Cylinder Vases — Qing Dynasty, Kangxi Period (1662–1722)

Description:
This striking pair of 17.5-inch height … Read more Pair of Chinese Cloisonné Bronze Cylinder Vases — Qing Dynasty, Kangxi Period (1662–1722)

Description:
This striking pair of 17.5-inch height and 7.25-inch width cylindrical cloisonné bronze vases dates to the Qing Dynasty, Kangxi period (1662–1722). The pair of cylindrical vases is slightly flared on top and has a narrower base. Finely crafted with the traditional cloisonné technique, each vase features vibrant enamel work and is divided into three decorative sections:


Upper Section: Features a wide, open mouth with bronze. Top section cloisonne depicts: A detailed scene with figures in traditional robes, likely engaged in a ritual or conversation, set against a background of stylized trees, plants, and architectural elements like bridges, and pavilions in a garden setting and symbolic elements rendered in rich blues, greens, and red bordered by a repeating geometric pattern.


Middle Section: A transitional band with a repeating pattern of floral design with 5 lotus flowers and three butterflies, and foliage background motifs, in colors of blue, green, and red, adding rhythm and balance to the composition. The surface shows a slightly raised band compared to the others, indicating meticulous craftsmanship.


Lower Section: The bottom cloisonne part provides stability and features a geometric pattern—incorporating the Ruyi head design —surrounded by elaborate floral patterns and scrolling designs, rendered in blue, green, and red, creating a rich tapestry effect symbolizing prosperity and longevity.
The vases are constructed from bronze (very heavy) with a lustrous cloisonné enamel finish. Both show appropriate signs of age, including surface wear and fading, enhancing their antique appeal.

Markings:
Each vase has a rectangular seal with Chinese characters that bears a four-character mark on the base reading “Da Qing Kangxi Nianzhi” "big" (大, dà), "Qing" (清, qīng,” and “Kangxi" (康熙), (Made during the Kangxi reign of the Great Qing Dynasty). The mark is consistent with imperial reign markings of the period. The pair is larger decorative vases from this period, often used for display rather than practical purposes, most likely for a wealthy and or royal family.

Condition:
Wear consistent with age, including enamel fading and minor surface irregularities. No major restorations are noted. One of the vases has a curvature at the top part of the lip, and the bronze rim has been pushed down ever so slightly.


The Kangxi period (1662–1722), part of the early Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), was a time of peace, prosperity, and cultural flourishing in China. This stability allowed for the advancement of various art forms, including cloisonné, which reached new heights in craftsmanship and design. During this period, cloisonné pieces were often produced for imperial use as well as for export, showcasing the era's technical sophistication and aesthetic values.

Artisans frequently incorporated symbolic motifs into their work. Butterflies, for instance, often symbolized longevity or prosperity, while floral patterns conveyed themes of growth, harmony, and the cyclical nature of life. These elements reflected traditional Chinese beliefs and added layers of meaning to decorative objects.

The pair of Chinese bronze cloisonné cylinder vases from the Kangxi period is truly remarkable. Both vases bear an authentic Kangxi mark, attributed to early Qing Dynasty production, significantly enhancing their historical and cultural value. See less