Rare Japanese Cloisonne Enamel 'Tiger and Bamboo' Charger. Circa 1900.

Rare Japanese Cloisonne Enamel 'Tiger and Bamboo' Charger. Circa 1900.

Circular form depicting a fierce tora (tiger). Fine and realistic depiction of 'Tiger and Bamboo' in cloisonne enamel*.

Worked in finely arranged wire depicting hair and stripes, in golden brown enamel, highlighted with black, red, and white enamel. The Tora framed within a take (bamboo) worked in various shades of green enamel on a light gray/blue enamel ground. Very similar example illustrated in Japanese Cloisonne Enamels (Gary H Yoshino) Image #480 and 490; p155. Also illustrated on front cover.

The detailed wirework simulating the flow of its fur. Body details and head finely rendered with realistic colours and characteristics. The 'Tiger' quietly creeping through the 'bamboo' camouflage, and ready to pounce. Superb wirework and enamelling techniques.
[Stand not included].

Condition: Faint hairline circular crack above Tiger (showing through from underside of base rim).

Dimensions:

Diameter = 36.5cm
Height = 4.5cm

* The pairing of the Tiger with Bamboo is a prominent and auspicious motif in East Asian art and culture, symbolizing strength and resilience, and representing the concept of a harmonious and peaceful society where the powerful find shelter among the weak. In Asian tradition, the tiger symbolizes power, courage and notably the "King of Beasts".