Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Vase

Description Meiji Period (1868-1912)  From our Japanese collection, we’re pleased to offer this elegant Meiji period (1868-1912) Japanese cloisonné enamel vase, dating to the late 19th century. The vase is tall and finely proportioned, with an elongated hexagonal bottle form, a long slender neck, flared trumpet mouth, and a circular foot. Set against a deep blue enamel ground, the surface is decorated in fine silver wirework of varying gauge, forming a detailed garden scene filled with chrysanthemum flowers and foliage in vibrant polychrome enamel. To the foreground, a silver-edged fence with alternating chevron panels adds structure and depth to the composition. The top and bottom rims are finished in silver-gilt, neatly framing the decorative surface. This piece dates to the golden era of Japanese cloisonné production during the Meiji period (1868–1912), a time when Japanese enamelwork reached exceptional technical and artistic heights. 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. 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. ENAMEL (VITREOUS 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 30.75cm High x 7cm Diameter (12.1 x 2.76 Inches) CONDITION Very Good-Excellent With every purchase from Jacksons Antique, you will receive our latest product guide, certificate of authenticity, full tracking information so you can monitor your shipment from start to finish and our personal no-hassle, money-back policy giving you that extra confidence when purchasing. Don’t forget to sign up to our free monthly newsletter for 10% off your first online purchase.