Meiji Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Silver Wire Signed Botanical Garden Vase

Details

Description

A finely executed Japanese cloisonné enamel vase dating to the Meiji period, signed on the underside and worked throughout with … Read more A finely executed Japanese cloisonné enamel vase dating to the Meiji period, signed on the underside and worked throughout with exceptionally delicate silver wire.


The elongated body is decorated with an elaborate Japanese garden scene set against a deep black enamel ground. A flowering plum tree extends across the upper portion of the vase, its twisting branches covered with clusters of pale blossoms. Below is a lush garden filled with lilies, irises, chrysanthemums, asters, peonies, camellias, and other seasonal flowers in subtle shades of ivory, yellow, red, violet, blue, and green.


At the center of the composition is a traditional folding bamboo garden screen or low fence, carefully rendered to show the texture of woven bamboo panels and framed by colorful geometric borders. The screen divides the densely planted garden and creates a remarkable sense of depth and perspective. Rocks, grasses, flowering plants, and scattered petals complete the naturalistic setting.


The exceptionally fine silver wirework outlines every branch, leaf, flower, and architectural detail. The quality of the drawing, varied enamel palette, and intricate layering of the garden demonstrate the high technical standard achieved by Japanese cloisonné artists during the Meiji period. Decorative borders of stylized petals and overlapping waves encircle the mouth and foot.


Signed on the underside. In good antique condition, with a small hairline at the side of the shoulder consistent with age. The colors remain rich and the finely detailed decoration is beautifully preserved




Dimensions

H 7 3/8 in. D 2 1/2 in. All measurements are approximate See less