Green Cloisonne Enamel Charger
These green cloisonne enamel chargers are striking decorative wall plates and trays from late nineteenth century Japan, bringing intricate metalwork and vibrant colour to a room.
Green Cloisonne Enamel Charger
When you search for a green cloisonne enamel charger, you encounter large decorative plates and trays originating from Japan during the Edo and Meiji periods. These pieces serve primarily as visual focal points, frequently depicting natural subjects such as birds, dragons, owls, and landscapes against verdant backgrounds.
The objects on this page span the latter half of the nineteenth century and the turn of the twentieth century, specifically from eighteen sixty to nineteen hundred. Most examples take the form of broad circular chargers or octagonal trays designed to be displayed on walls or surfaces.
How they were made
Artisans build these chargers on a foundation of copper or brass, sometimes incorporating ceramic elements or wood. They shape fine brass wire to outline the pictorial motifs, creating cellular compartments known as cloisons across the metal surface.
Workers fill these wire outlines with vitreous enamel paste, applying the green and multi-coloured glass compounds before firing the piece in a kiln. After repeated firings and polishings, the metal wires remain flush with the hardened enamel to reveal the finished design.
The listings on this site feature pieces from the eighteen sixties through to nineteen hundred, encompassing both the Edo and Meiji periods.
What varies in quality
Quality in these chargers rests upon the precision of the wirework and the complexity of the subject matter. Finer pieces demonstrate exceptionally delicate brass wire lines that form intricate feather patterns, foliage, or mythological creatures without distortion in the enamel.
The depth and consistency of the green vitreous enamel further distinguish the work, alongside whether the piece bears a signature from the maker or workshop. Larger dimensions and unusual pictorial themes, such as specific animals or figures, mark out superior examples.
The Green Cloisonne Enamel Charger Glossary
- Cloisonne enamel
- Metalwork decorated by adding vitreous enamel to compartments separated by strips of brass wire. The term describes both the technique and the resulting decorative surface.
- Charger
- A large ornamental plate or dish used traditionally for display rather than for serving food. These pieces measure significantly wider than standard dining plates.
- Totai shippo
- A specific Japanese cloisonne technique where enamel is applied over a ceramic or porcelain body rather than a metal base. This method creates translucent effects.
- Meiji period
- The era of Japanese history lasting from eighteen sixty-eight to nineteen twelve, characterised by rapid modernisation and exceptional decorative arts production.
- Mon
- A Japanese heraldic badge or emblem used to identify families or clans. These circular crests appear frequently within the decorative borders of Japanese metalwork.
Green Cloisonne Enamel Charger: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I hang a heavy charger safely?
Display these heavy metal and enamel plates using a sturdy, adjustable wall-mounting bracket designed specifically for large decorative platters. Ensure the grip secures the rim firmly without placing excessive pressure on the enamel surface.
Position the charger away from areas of high foot traffic or direct sunlight to protect the vitreous enamel finish over time.
What subjects appear on these pieces?
The designs on these chargers frequently feature natural motifs including ho-o birds, phoenixes, owls, bamboo, and Mount Fuji. Other examples depict mythological scenes involving dragons, samurai, demons, and traditional Japanese mon crests.
Backgrounds often utilise deep green enamel to create contrast with the detailed polychrome subjects worked in brass wire.
How do I clean an enamel charger?
Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove everyday particles without scratching the polished enamel or metal wires. Avoid using water, liquid cleaners, or chemical solvents, which can damage older metal bases and exposed edges.
Keep the piece in a stable indoor environment with moderate humidity to preserve the copper, brass, and glass materials.
How do I date these Japanese plates?
Examine the construction materials, base metals, and stylistic details to determine the approximate production period between eighteen sixty and nineteen hundred. Pieces attributed to the late Edo period reflect earlier manufacturing traditions, while Meiji era items often display distinct wiring techniques.
Signatures or artist marks found on the reverse or surface provide additional clues for establishing the date of creation.