Pair Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Dragon Dishes. Circa 1870.

Pair Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Dishes. Circa 1870.

Superbly and finely decorated early Japanese cloisonne pieces (x2 and near matching). Central decoration with fierce dragon chasing / guarding a pearl within the clouds (of the heavens). Surrounded by elaborate brocades, stylised waves, mosaic crosshatching and grasses. High-quality cloisonné with tight brass wire work and multi- coloured enamels. Body is decorated with patterns of Karakusa flowers and geometrical patterns. The dark green enamel is unique to this era and came about through a botched attempt at recreating the turquoise blue of Ming Dynasty cloisonné. Substantial use of wires, both decorative and functional in anchoring the enamel in early Japanese cloisonne work. Attributed to workshop of Kaji Tsunekichi (1803–83) with fine wire work and enamelling technique of the period.

Condition: Excellent condition, form and good circular shape. (Display stands not part of the sale).

Dimensions: Height = 4cm; Diameter = 25cm (approx) of shallow dish form.

* In Japanese culture, dragons are often depicted carrying a pearl, which symbolizes power, wisdom, and spiritual energy. The pearl is said to give dragons the power to ascend into the heavens.

* In the 1830s, Kaji Tsunekichi of Nagoya obtained a piece of Cloisonné enamel and deconstructed it in order to examine how it had been made. He then reworked the piece to produce a small dish with wired enamel decoration. By the 1850s he had opened a workshop (Nagoya), taken on students and was appointed as the official maker of Cloisonné in the Owari Province.