Monumental Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Vase With Dueling Dragons

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A striking and highly ambitious Japanese cloisonné enamel vase, remarkable for its monumental scale and dramatic dueling dragon composition, standing … Read more A striking and highly ambitious Japanese cloisonné enamel vase, remarkable for its monumental scale and dramatic dueling dragon composition, standing an impressive 25 inches tall. Set against a deep, mirror like black ground, the surface is animated by two powerful dragons locked in dynamic opposition, their sinuous bodies wrapping the vessel with exceptional fluidity and control. The dragons are rendered in rich, layered tones of aubergine, brown, olive green, pale pink, and soft blue, with finely detailed scales, claws, whiskers, and fiercely expressive faces that convey movement and intensity.


The composition is expertly adapted to the tall ovoid form, allowing the dragons to rise and descend naturally across the surface without crowding, a technical and artistic challenge rarely achieved at this scale. The wirework is precise and confident throughout, with subtle shading and graduated enamels creating depth and dimension against the glossy black ground. Accents of red flame motifs and delicately outlined details heighten the visual drama while maintaining balance and elegance.


Vases of this size and quality are exceptionally rare, far exceeding standard production and strongly suggesting a special commission or masterwork from a highly skilled workshop. This piece stands as a commanding example of Japanese cloisonné at its most ambitious, offering extraordinary presence, rarity, and visual impact suitable for a serious private collection or museum level display. See less