Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Charger. Sparrowhawk / Tsumi. Circa 1890.

Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Charger. Circa 1890. A superb medium sized charger depicting the Japanese Sparrowhawk (Tsumi)*.

The rendition is extremely fine with the Tsumi (symbolising the Warrior Spirit in Japan), sitting on a branch having caught a sparrow meal. The enamel colours, and attention to detail, especially the mottled feathers and yellow feet is truly sublime. The reverse decorated with cloisonne swirls in deep green enamel.

Condition: Excellent original. Hairlines as shown in photo mirrored from base. Some minor firing losses.

Dimensions:

Diameter = 30 cm

Depth = 3 cm

*The Japanese Sparrowhawk (Tachyspiza gularis), known as Tsumi in Japanese, is a small, agile bird of prey native to Japan, Siberia, and Korea, breeding in wooded areas and wintering in Southeast Asia. These raptors are recognized by their slim bodies, yellow legs, and distinct barred underwings. Cultural Significance: Hawks are a symbol of the warrior spirit in Japan. Historically, they were central to Takagari (Japanese falconry), a sport of the noble samurai class.