Pair of Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Meiji Plates With Birds and Chrysanthemums

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A pair of Japanese Cloisonne enamel plates from the Meiji period (1868–1912), circa 1890. Each measures 11 inches in diameter … Read more A pair of Japanese Cloisonne enamel plates from the Meiji period (1868–1912), circa 1890. Each measures 11 inches in diameter and presents a colorful garden scene against a vivid turquoise blue ground.

Branches bearing delicate white blossoms extend across the center of each plate, while small birds fly and perch among pink and white chrysanthemums. The two compositions are closely related, but the positions of the flowers, branches and birds vary, giving each plate its own character while allowing them to display beautifully as a pair.

The garden scenes are framed by a series of geometric bands and shaped reserves. Stylized birds appear within the reserves at the sides, while dense floral and scrolling patterns fill the borders above and below. The contrast between these intricate sections and the open turquoise ground gives the compositions a sense of depth and allows the finer details of the birds and blossoms to stand out.

Rich in color and exceptionally engaging when viewed together, the plates would make a striking wall display or an addition to a collection of Meiji period Japanese enamel.

Diameter: 11 inches each. See less