Meiji Period Cloisonne Bulbous Cabinet Vase

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Description

Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Cabinet Vase, circa 1880

A finely detailed Japanese Meiji period cloisonné cabinet vase, dating to … Read more Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Cabinet Vase, circa 1880

A finely detailed Japanese Meiji period cloisonné cabinet vase, dating to the late 19th century. Standing 4 inches high with a 2-inch diameter at its widest point and a 1-inch base, this petite bulbous-form vase showcases the exceptional craftsmanship characteristic of Japan’s cloisonné enamel revival during the Meiji era (1868–1912).

Executed on a copper body, the surface is entirely decorated with intricate wired scrollwork (called “ginbari”), filled with colorful enamels in vibrant blues, greens, reds, and soft pinks. The vase features alternating cartouches of stylized butterflies, chrysanthemums, and peony blossoms framed by ornate cloud and swirl patterns on a black ground. A scalloped collar in teal and navy encircles the base, echoing the stylized floral borders around the neck and shoulder.

The work is unsigned, as is common for many high-quality cloisonné pieces of this size and type from the period. The underside reveals the telltale exposed copper footrim, lending further support to its Meiji attribution.

A jewel-like piece ideal for display in a vitrine or as part of a focused Japanese decorative arts collection. See less