Rare Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Miniature Ritual Vase. Circa 1870.

Extremely rare Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Miniature Ritual Vase. Circa 1870. Late Edo period. Attributed to Kaji Tsunekichi * (1803–83) responsible for the renaissance of Japanese cloisonne.

The profile of this vessel is heavily rooted in ancient ritual designs. Its silhouette directly mimics the archaistic forms of ancient Chinese bronze ritual vessels*.

Extremely high-quality cloisonné with intricate brass wire-work and finely decorated with a plethora of vivid coloured enamels in blue, red, yellow and green. The wirework and enamelling ''minitiarised'' and of complexity similar to the finest of cloisonne-enamel ''ojime'' detailed bead-work.

Body is decorated mainly with patterns of Karakusa foliage and Kiku flowers. Square and arrow shaped panels filled with traditional Japanese geometrical patterns of: Kojitsunagi, Shippo, Asanoha. The base decorated en-plein in traditional dark green translucent enamel. This is a very rare item of finest detail, rarity and museum quality. Superb.
[Stand not included].

Condition: Excellent original condition. Some enamel firing losses around the elaborate loop decoration.

Dimensions:

Height = 16 cm

Width = 10 cm (across handles)

Depth = 6.5 cm

*Historically, this vase draws direct inspiration from ancient Chinese ritual bronze vessels. Its design incorporates several classic, archaistic ritual elements:
• The Hu or Gu Form: The flared neck, distinctive bulging central section (knop), and splayed foot are modeled after ancient wine vessels used in sacred ancestral ceremonies.
• Taotie/Mask Handles: The two loops on the side, paired with loose rings, mimic the ceremonial animal-mask (taotie) handle mounts traditionally cast into ancient bronze pieces to hold carrying ropes.
• Symbolic Geometry: In ancient rituals, the combination of round and square shapes on these vessels often symbolized the connection between heaven, earth, and the ancestral spirits.