Pair Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Dishes. Late Edo Period. Circa 1860.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 cloisonn� 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 cloisonn�. Substantial use of wires, both decorative and functional in anchoring the enamel in early Japanese cloisonne work. Attributed to 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 Chinese Cloisonn� 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 Cloisonn� in the Owari Province.Height is 4cm (1.6inches)
Width is 25cm (9.8inches)
Depth is 25cm (9.8inches)