Item HT 22560 Vase - Cloisonne, Birds, Chrysanthemums & Butterflies, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, Early Meiji Period, 1868-1880

Summary

Cloisonné vase featuring Birds, Chrysanthemums & Butterflies, manufactured in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan in the early Meiji period (1868-1880).

The process of inlaid enamelling (cloisonné) in Japan dates back to the 8th century. Popular throughout Japan over the centuries, technical developments in the 19th century saw it reach its zenith in the Meiji period (1868-1912). The most important technical development being the 'Yuusen-shippo' method developed by Tsunekichi Kaji in 1833, in which fine filigree wires of brass, gold or silver are glued rather than soldered onto base metal. Then in 1868 Tsukamoto Kaisuke developed a process of applying filigree wire and fired enamel to ceramic pottery, known as 'Jitai Shippo'. And in 1879, Namikawa Sosuke (1847 to 1910) developed a technique for creating totally wireless enamel ware, 'Musen-shippo'. The elimination of wire enabled the artisan to create elaborate scenic designs that were not possible with wire..

Physical Description

Large cylindrical neck with flaring rim above cylindrical body on narrower foot. Aqua blue ground with stylised floral motif in red, green and black around neck. Body decorated in naturalistic colours with flying ducks, butterflies and chrysanthemums. No markings.