Large Vintage Chinese Cloisonné Covered Vase With Gilt Dragon Handles & Carved Rosewood Base

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A breathtaking example of mid-20th century cloisonné craftsmanship, this large vintage lidded vase is a symphony of exquisite detail, form, … Read more A breathtaking example of mid-20th century cloisonné craftsmanship, this large vintage lidded vase is a symphony of exquisite detail, form, and color. Likely Chinese in origin and dating to the 1960s–1970s, the piece is an extraordinary display of hand-applied enamelwork and artistry rooted in centuries of imperial tradition.

The vase features a richly layered surface of scrolling floral and cloud motifs in soft pastels — lavender, powder blue, and blush — elegantly contrasted against a deep, glittering chocolate-brown ground. The shimmering quality of the enamel, particularly the glitter-like speckling in the brown areas, suggests a rare mixture of metallic flecks or mica integrated into the enamel base — a technique found only in high-quality pieces from the mid-20th century.

The vessel is crowned with a domed lid fitted with sculptural gilt “plated” scrollwork finials, each looped with precision and harmony. Twin gilt lion or dragon-head handles (plated in gold-tone finish) anchor both sides of the body, each holding a ring in its mouth, symbolizing protection and strength.

The vase is elevated on a finely carved hardwood pedestal stand in a hexagonal form, further enhancing its presentation and height. The deep imperial blue cloisonné interior and base enamel offer a striking contrast to the elaborate external decoration.

A rare collector’s piece, this vase merges decorative art and sculpture into one statement object — ideal for a curated display, luxury interior, or high-end design space. See less