Were these pieces meant for daily use?

Most items such as decorative bowls, chargers and jardinieres served primarily as ornamental display pieces in homes. Their intricate enamel surfaces were vulnerable to heavy wear and physical impacts. While some jars and trays had practical functions, their delicate construction made them better suited for decorative presentation.

How can I tell Japanese from Chinese pieces?

Japanese Meiji period works often utilise lighter copper bases with very fine, precise wirework depicting natural subjects like birds and koi. Chinese pieces from the same decades frequently employ heavier bronze foundations with bolder decorative styles. Examining the weight, metal composition and wire thickness helps distinguish between these regional manufacturing traditions.

Why are some pieces mounted as lamps?

Vases and jars were frequently converted into lamps during the twentieth century to suit changing interior decoration tastes. This practice involved drilling or adapting the base to fit electrical wiring. While alteration changes the original format, converted pieces remain a common part of the historical record.