What is oriental cloisonne metalwork?

These items are decorative metal objects created by soldering fine wire partitions onto a copper, bronze, or brass body. The resulting cells are filled with vitreous enamel paste and fired to produce colourful, durable designs. Originating primarily from Japanese Meiji workshops and Chinese Qing dynasties, the form includes vases, censers, and large display chargers depicting natural and mythological subjects.

How were these pieces used historically?

Many objects served functional roles in homes, temples, and imperial courts, such as censers for burning incense, brush washers for scholars, and water dispensers for ceremonial use. Other forms, including large chargers, lidded jars, and palace vases, functioned purely as decorative displays of wealth, technical skill, and artistic status.

How do I distinguish Japanese from Chinese pieces?

Japanese Meiji period items often exhibit extremely fine silver or brass wirework with hyper-realistic depictions of birds, Mount Fuji, and koi, sometimes bearing signatures from renowned makers. Chinese pieces from the Qing style tend to feature heavier bronze or brass foundations, bolder geometric borders, and stylised motifs like mythical beasts and imperial dragons.

How should I care for antique cloisonne?

Keep the pieces away from direct sunlight and areas prone to sudden temperature fluctuations, which can stress the bond between the metal base and the glass enamel. Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth and avoid using chemical cleaning products, water immersion, or abrasive polishes on the metal and wire.

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These oriental cloisonne metalwork pieces combine disciplined wirework and vibrant vitreous enamel, offering collectors tangible fragments of Meiji and Qing craftsmanship.

Superb Quality Pair of Antique Japanese Cloisonné Plates

1900 - 1920

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Superb Quality Pair of Antique Japanese Cloisonné Plates

From Rebecca Sarah Antiques

£695

3+ MONTHS AGO

metal

Pair Japanese Meiji Period Cloisonne Enamel Vases / Lamps

19th century

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Pair Japanese Meiji Period Cloisonne Enamel Vases / Lamps

From Patrick Moorhead Antiques

£3,200

3+ MONTHS AGO

lighting

19th century

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19th Century Oriental Japanese Cloisonne Vase

From Prior and Willis

£1,886

3+ MONTHS AGO

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Large Pair of Chinese Cloisonné Enamel Vases

1920 - 1940

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Large Pair of Chinese Cloisonné Enamel Vases

From H & H Gallery

£7,500

3+ MONTHS AGO

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Antique Chinese Champlevé Enamel Decorated Bronze Vase

19th century

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Antique Chinese Champlevé Enamel Decorated Bronze Vase

From Rebecca Sarah Antiques

£495

3+ MONTHS AGO

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Oriental Cloisonne Metalwork

Superb Quality Pair of Antique Japanese Cloisonné Plates

Pair Japanese Meiji Period Cloisonne Enamel Vases / Lamps

19th Century Oriental Japanese Cloisonne Vase

Large Pair of Chinese Cloisonné Enamel Vases

Antique Chinese Champlevé Enamel Decorated Bronze Vase

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