Masterpiece / Monumental Japanese Cloisonne Enamel 'Dragon' Charger (63cm). Circa 1865 - 1870.

Monumental and important Japanese cloisonne enamel 'Dragon' charger. Circa 1865 - 1870. *Attributed to Kaji Sataro. Museum quality.

Decorated in deep green, blue, red and pink enamels with ferocious-looking dragon spitting flames and guarding the sacred pearls (of wisdom) among stylised clouds, the reverse panels of blossoms and grasses over brocade pattern ground. Also with detailed segments containg variety of stylised mythical ho-ho bird. Truly superb.

Condition: Excellent condition with no enamel losses. An early and rare Japanese cloisonne piece of the highest craftsmanship for the era.

Dimensions: Height = 11cm; Diameter = 63cm

*A strikingly similar and much smaller dish with two dragons fighting and contesting the sacred pearls is in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, accession no 326-1872. The rendition of the dragons similar to this piece. Also same described and noted in Japanese Cloisonne Enamels by Gregory Irvine: Plate 75 [reputed the V&A museum dish was made by Kaji Sataro, son of Kaji Tsunekichi].