Copper Cloisonne Wall Platter
These copper cloisonne wall platter pieces bring intricate metalwork and vibrant enamels into your home.
Copper Cloisonne Wall Platter
A copper cloisonne wall platter is a decorative dish designed for display, originating primarily from Japanese workshops during the late Edo and Meiji periods. These pieces serve as striking wall art or tabletop focal points, showcasing traditional oriental motifs.
The selection ranges from large chargers depicting dragons and phoenixes to medium plates featuring samurai, owls, and leaping koi. Most examples date from the 1860s through to 1900, capturing a golden age of metalwork craftsmanship.
Materials and construction
Craftsmen form each base using copper or brass, shaping the metal into wide platters and chargers ready for ornamentation. Thin brass wire is then soldered onto the surface to create the distinct compartmentalised design of the cloisonne technique.
Vitreous enamel paste fills each individual cell before the platter undergoes high-temperature firing. The piece is subsequently polished to achieve a smooth finish where the metal wire outlines the colourful enamel imagery.
Copper Cloisonne Wall Platter Retail Price Guide 2026
Typical asking prices for copper cloisonne wall platter 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.
The selection spans five decades, running from the 1860s late Edo period through the 1870s, 1880s, and 1890s, up to 1900.
Evaluating quality and execution
Quality depends heavily on the complexity of the wirework and the precision of the enamel infill. Finer platters exhibit intricate detail in subjects like dragons, birds, and figures without flaws in the vitrified surface.
The depth of colour and the crispness of the design separate standard decorative items from masterworks. Signed pieces and those from the earlier Edo period often display superior technical execution.
The Copper Cloisonne Wall Platter Glossary
- Cloisonne Enamel
- An ancient decorative technique where metal wires form compartments on a metal base to hold vitreous enamel paste. This method creates a patterned mosaic effect upon firing.
- Charger
- A large ornamental plate or platter intended primarily for display rather than serving food. These substantial vessels provide a wide canvas for pictorial compositions.
- Meiji Period
- A Japanese historical era spanning from 1868 to 1912, noted for a surge in high-quality decorative arts produced for international and domestic markets. Pieces from this time often show advanced technical mastery.
- Edo Period
- The period in Japanese history preceding the Meiji era, running from 1603 to 1867. Early examples from this time demonstrate the foundational techniques of later metalwork.
Copper Cloisonne Wall Platter: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I hang a heavy charger?
These metal platters require sturdy wall fixings designed to support significant weight safely. Utilise a secure bracket or adjustable spring hanger that grips the rim firmly without putting pressure on the enamel.
Ensure the wall anchor is anchored directly into a stud or uses a proper plaster toggle. Regularly check the fitting to maintain secure placement.
Are these platters meant for food?
These items are strictly decorative works of art intended for display on walls or stands. The traditional construction methods and materials are not rated for culinary use.
Using them for serving could damage the delicate enamel surface and the exposed metal wires. Keep them safely away from moisture and edibles.
How do I clean cloisonne?
Dust the surface gently using a soft, dry cloth to prevent accumulation within the wire crevices. Avoid all liquid cleaners, abrasive pads, and chemical polishes that can scratch the glass enamel.
If deeper cleaning is necessary, consult a professional conservator to avoid compromising the vintage metal and vitreous finish.
How do I date an antique charger?
Examine the style of the motifs, the weight of the copper base, and the complexity of the brass wirework. Pieces from the 1860s often fall into the late Edo period, while those from the 1870s to 1900 belong to the Meiji era.
Signatures on the reverse or front can also offer clues regarding the workshop or artist responsible for the creation.