Copper Cloisonne Enamel Charger
These copper cloisonne enamel chargers are striking decorative wall plates and trays originating from Japan, prized for their intricate wirework and vitreous enamels.
Copper Cloisonne Enamel Charger
A copper cloisonne enamel charger is a wide decorative plate, tray or plaque designed for display rather than dining. The examples gathered under this heading span several decades from the mid nineteenth century into the twentieth century, originating primarily from Japanese workshops during the Meiji and late Edo periods.
The forms vary from large circular chargers and plates to square trays, depicting motifs such as dragons, koi, phoenixes, owls, irises and samurai figures. Buyers encountering these pieces will find both large scale display items and medium plates displaying traditional Japanese iconography.
Materials and construction
These works are constructed upon a base of copper, shaped into plates, chargers or trays. Artisans then applied fine brass wire or copper wire to form the raised outlines of the design, creating individual compartments known as cloisons.
Vitreous enamel paste was packed into these wire compartments and fired in a kiln to fuse the coloured glass surfaces. Subsequent grinding and polishing produced a smooth finish across the metal wires and hardened enamel.
Copper Cloisonne Enamel Charger Retail Price Guide 2026
Typical asking prices for copper cloisonne enamel charger among the pieces listed under this phrase on Sellingantiques today, from the lower quarter to the upper quarter. They describe what is for sale here now, not the wider market.
Factors of distinction
The distinction between standard items and the finest examples rests upon the complexity of the subject matter and the precision of the wirework. Pieces featuring intricate single dragons, leaping koi or detailed figures such as samurai demand greater skill from the artisan than simpler floral arrangements.
Signatures upon the copper body or reverse also elevate certain plates, marking the output of skilled workshops. The density and fineness of the wire cells determine the overall refinement of the finished charger.
The Copper Cloisonne Enamel Charger Glossary
- Cloisonne enamel
- A technique where metal wires are soldered onto a metal base to create cells which are filled with enamel paste and fired. This method allows for detailed pictorial designs.
- Charger
- A large ornamental plate utilised for display on walls or furniture rather than for serving food. These pieces form the primary large format objects in this category.
- Meiji Period
- A period in Japanese history spanning from 1868 to 1912, noted for significant production of detailed decorative arts for export. Many items on this page originate from this era.
- Edo Period
- The period in Japanese history preceding the Meiji era, running from 1603 to 1867. Late Edo examples represent the earlier end of the timeline seen here.
- Vitreous enamel
- A material made by fusing powdered glass to a substrate by firing, usually between 750 and 850 degrees Celsius. The resulting compound is durable and glossy.
Copper Cloisonne Enamel Charger: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I hang a heavy charger on the wall?
Large chargers require robust wall fixings and a specialised spring hanger that distributes the weight evenly around the rim.
Ensure the wire or brackets grip the edge securely without placing undue stress on the enamelled surface.
What is the difference between a charger and a plate?
Chargers are significantly larger in diameter than standard plates, traditionally intended for ceremonial use or grand display.
In this category, chargers generally measure over thirty centimetres across, dominating wall space or cabinet displays.
Are these items signed by makers?
Certain pieces bear artist signatures or workshop marks embedded into the base or enamel surface.
These signatures provide a direct link to the maker, though many fine period examples remain unmarked.
How should I clean my copper cloisonne piece?
Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth to remove particles without scratching the vitreous enamel.
Avoid liquid cleaners, chemical polishes or water immersion, as these can harm the metal wire and exposed copper.