Japanese Meiji Period Cloisonne Enamel Sake Pot

Description From our Japanese collection we are delighted to offer this Japanese Meiji Period Cloisonne Enamel Sake Pot. The Sake pot of rounded squat form with clean edges profusely decorated with a loose ‘millefleur‘ blossoming flower pattern upon a black ground base with varying gauge scrolling wire motifs amongst roundels with further blossoming flowers, bamboo cane and Phoenix birds (Ho-o). The base with a striking yellow ground with decorated cloud like enamels. The work is very much in the style of Namikawa Yasuyuki and likely a follower of Namikawa dating to the golden era of Japanese Cloisonne Enamel production in Japan the Meiji period (1868-1912) circa 1890. ABOUT THE MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912) The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art. For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation. ABOUT THE MATERIAL CLOISONNE Cloisonné is a traditional decorative art that involves applying thin metal wires to form compartments (cloisons) on a metal surface, which are then filled with colourful enamel. After multiple firings and polishings, the result is a vibrant, glass-like finish with intricate designs. The technique has roots in ancient China but was perfected in Japan during the Meiji period (1868–1912), often referred to as the Golden Age of Cloisonné. Japanese artists developed advanced methods such as musen shippō (wireless cloisonné) and shōtai shippō (plique-à-jour), creating seamless, naturalistic, and even translucent effects. Highly prized for its precision, artistry, and beauty, Japanese cloisonné is regarded as one of the finest forms of enamel craftsmanship in the world and remains highly collectible today. For further information see our article  The Art of Japanese Cloisonné: History, Craftsmanship, and the Golden Age. ABOUT THE MATERIAL Enamel also known as porcelain enamel, is a material made by fusing powdered glass to a substrate by firing, usually between 750 and 850 °C. The powder melts, flows, and then hardens to a smooth, durable vitreous coating. The word vitreous comes from the Latin vitreous, meaning “glassy”. Measurements 14cm High x 16cm Long x 12cm Wide (5.5 x 6.3 x 4.7 Inches) Condition Excellent, No damage and no restoration. WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.