Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Phoenix Butterfly Floral Vase Meiji Period

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An exquisite and unusually decorated Japanese cloisonne enamel vase from the Meiji period (1868–1912), distinguished by its brilliant translucent red … Read more An exquisite and unusually decorated Japanese cloisonne enamel vase from the Meiji period (1868–1912), distinguished by its brilliant translucent red enamel, exceptionally rich deep green ground, and elaborate polychrome decoration featuring mythical birds, butterflies, floral scrollwork, and intricate ornamental panels.

Measuring just 4 inches in height, this beautifully proportioned vase possesses a striking spherical body, gently tapered neck, and elegantly flared gilt copper rim. Despite its intimate scale, the vase displays an extraordinary richness of color and decorative complexity, reflecting the artistic sophistication of Japanese cloisonne production during the Meiji era.

The upper shoulder is decorated with a magnificent field of translucent ruby red enamel, enriched with finely detailed chrysanthemums, delicate butterflies, scrolling foliage, and stylized floral motifs in turquoise blue, ivory, soft green, and golden yellow. Particularly noteworthy are the butterflies incorporated throughout the translucent red ground, their delicately rendered wings and intricate detailing beautifully integrated into the surrounding floral decoration. The translucent enamel creates a luminous depth, allowing light to interact with the underlying metal surface and providing a striking contrast to the surrounding opaque enamels.

The principal body is decorated with alternating shield-shaped panels set against a remarkably deep green enamel ground, which can appear nearly black under certain lighting conditions. This unusual dark green coloration provides a dramatic contrast to the brilliant red shoulder and pale yellow decorative reserves.

Within the panels are elaborate compositions of stylized phoenix-like birds, flowering branches, and ornamental foliage. Particularly striking is a pair of confronting mythical birds with gracefully extended wings and flowing tail feathers, rendered in delicate shades of red, turquoise, blue, and brown. Additional panels feature exotic floral arrangements with intricate scrolling stems and blossoms.

The individual panels are framed by delicate beaded borders and separated by vertical ornamental bands incorporating suspended jewel-like motifs, scrolling arabesques, and colorful geometric details. The neck is similarly decorated with an elaborate arrangement of hanging ornaments and stylized patterns, while the underside features a beautifully executed circular floral medallion surrounding the gilt copper foot.

The combination of translucent red enamel, deep green ground, intricate wirework, and richly colored decorative panels gives this vase a particularly distinctive character. The inclusion of butterflies among the floral decoration adds another layer of refinement to the composition, while the contrasting phoenix motifs introduce a sense of movement and symmetry.

Its complex ornamentation reflects the influence of traditional Japanese decorative arts alongside the technical experimentation and increasingly sophisticated enamel techniques developed during the Meiji period.

A highly decorative and collectible example of Japanese cloisonne enamel, this vase offers an impressive concentration of color, craftsmanship, and artistic detail within its compact form.

**Origin:** Japan

**Period:** Meiji Period (1868–1912)

**Material:** Cloisonne enamel on copper

**Height:** 4 inches See less