Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Dragon Trinket Box Attributed to Inaba, Meiji

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Description

Japanese Cloisonne Dragon Trinket Box Attributed to Inaba, Meiji, circa 1895

Description

An exceptional Japanese cloisonne enamel trinket box attributed … Read more Japanese Cloisonne Dragon Trinket Box Attributed to Inaba, Meiji, circa 1895

Description

An exceptional Japanese cloisonne enamel trinket box attributed to the celebrated Inaba workshop, dating to the Meiji period, circa 1895. Distinguished by its magnificent coiled dragon, extraordinarily elaborate multicolored ornamentation, intricate gilt wirework, and beautifully engraved metal interior, this remarkable example reflects the artistic sophistication and technical achievements of Japanese cloisonne craftsmanship during the late 19th century.

Of rectangular form and raised on four gilt metal bracket feet, the box features a richly decorated hinged cover, ornamental sides, and a fully enameled underside. Its sophisticated palette incorporates cobalt blue, turquoise, emerald green, coral red, lavender, pale pink, ivory, and golden yellow, arranged in a harmonious combination of floral, geometric, and traditional Japanese motifs.

The centerpiece of the hinged cover is a powerful serpentine dragon dramatically coiled within an elegantly shaped cartouche against a deep emerald green enamel ground enriched with delicate gold flecking.

The dragon is rendered in muted bronze and aubergine tones, with individually articulated scales outlined in exceptionally fine metal wire. Its contrasting ivory white underbelly, flowing mane, expressive facial features, sharply defined claws, and curling whiskers demonstrate remarkable precision and attention to detail.

Delicate pink scrolling clouds surround the creature, enhancing the sense of movement within the composition. The central reserve is framed by a pale blue and white enamel border, creating an elegant contrast with the richly ornamented surrounding surface.

In Japanese artistic tradition, the dragon symbolizes strength, wisdom, protection, and prosperity. Its dynamic representation became an important decorative subject among accomplished Meiji period cloisonne workshops.

Surrounding the dragon is an extraordinary arrangement of individual decorative panels incorporating stylized chrysanthemums, flowering branches, bamboo, scrolling foliage, and intricate geometric diaper patterns.

The composition is particularly notable for its variety of ornamental designs. Diamond-shaped latticework alternates with delicate floral reserves, richly colored scrolling patterns, and textile-inspired geometric motifs. Each section is carefully defined by fine gilt wirework, producing an intricate tapestry of contrasting colors and patterns.

The four sides continue this elaborate decorative program, with floral and geometric panels arranged above a continuous architectural border of elongated turquoise blue arches with contrasting coral red interiors.

The gilt metal framework, hinged construction, and four raised bracket feet provide an elegant architectural finish, complementing the precision and richness of the enamel decoration.

Particularly noteworthy is the beautifully decorated underside, demonstrating the considerable attention devoted to surfaces that would ordinarily remain unseen.

The underside features a brilliant turquoise blue enamel ground centered by a stylized chrysanthemum with alternating ivory and green petals surrounding a golden yellow center.

Scrolling vines and foliage extend across the composition, framed by an intricate border of overlapping green scale motifs and a continuous coral red beaded band.

The elaborate treatment of the underside is an important indication of the quality and artistic ambition of the piece, reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship extending beyond the visible exterior surfaces.

Opening the hinged cover reveals an elegant gilt metal interior engraved with a charming Japanese naturalistic composition.

The underside of the lid depicts two graceful long-legged wading birds, likely herons, standing among delicate grasses and reeds. Their slender forms, carefully articulated feathers, and naturalistic poses are rendered through exceptionally fine engraved lines.

Additional botanical motifs decorate the interior base, creating a restrained and harmonious composition.

The contrast between the brilliantly colored cloisonne exterior and the delicately engraved metal interior is particularly appealing. The inclusion of such carefully executed interior decoration further demonstrates the artistic consideration devoted to the entire object.

Attribution to the Inaba Workshop

This exceptional trinket box is attributed to the Inaba workshop based on its distinctive decorative composition, sophisticated enamel palette, intricate wirework, construction, and close stylistic similarities to documented examples bearing Inaba signatures.

Numerous closely related Japanese cloisonne boxes, including larger document boxes bearing Inaba signatures, have been recorded in museum collections and specialist publications. These works provide an important comparative foundation for the attribution.

Particularly significant are the elaborate dragon compositions enclosed within shaped ornamental reserves, the surrounding multicolored floral and geometric panels, and the repeating architectural borders decorating the sides.

The finely articulated dragon scales, contrasting ivory underbelly, flowing whiskers, and carefully arranged ornamental reserves demonstrate close stylistic relationships with this group of works.

The overall construction, gilt metal framework, decorative bracket feet, fully enameled underside, and finely engraved interior further support the attribution.

Considered together, these characteristics suggest production within the artistic tradition of the Inaba workshop and reflect the high standards of craftsmanship associated with accomplished Meiji period enamel makers.

During the Meiji period, Japanese cloisonne reached extraordinary levels of technical and artistic refinement. Leading workshops developed increasingly sophisticated methods of enamel shading, intricate wire decoration, and elaborate ornamental composition, producing objects admired by collectors throughout Japan and internationally.

This remarkable trinket box exemplifies that tradition through its ambitious decorative design, brilliant enamel coloration, and meticulous craftsmanship.

The combination of a dramatic dragon composition, richly ornamented exterior, fully decorated underside, and beautifully engraved interior makes it a particularly attractive example of late 19th century Japanese decorative artistry.

An elegant and highly collectible work, suitable for a distinguished collection of Japanese cloisonne, Meiji period metalwork, or finely executed antique trinket boxes.

**Origin:** Japan

**Period:** Meiji period, circa 1895

**Attribution:** Inaba workshop

**Materials:** Cloisonne enamel and gilt metal

**Dimensions:**
- Width: 5 inches
- Depth: 4 inches
- Height: 2 ½ inches

**Condition:** Good antique condition with wear consistent with age and use. The enamel retains its vibrant coloration, with minor surface wear visible in places. The gilt metal interior exhibits oxidation, surface scratches, and patination consistent with age. The hinged cover opens to reveal the engraved interior. Please refer to the photographs for additional details. See less