Antique Japanese Cloisonné Dragon Box | Meiji Taisho Enamel Trinket Box (c1900)

A beautifully crafted antique Japanese cloisonné enamel box, decorated with a finely detailed five-clawed dragon amongst stylised cobalt-blue clouds on a luminous white enamel ground.

Dating to approximately 1900–1925, spanning the late Meiji to early Taishō period, this small box displays an unusually high level of workmanship and detail.

The dragon is particularly impressive. Its body is constructed from individually outlined scales in extremely fine metal wire, with subtle gradations of yellow, pink and green enamel. The face, claws, flames and surrounding cloud forms are similarly intricate, creating remarkable detail within a box measuring only approximately 8 cm across.

The decoration continues around the sides and onto the underside. Rather than being left plain, the base is richly enamelled with further scrolling and dragon motifs surrounding a recessed cobalt-blue centre. This extensive decoration gives the piece visual interest from virtually every angle.

Dating and attribution

The form, enamel palette, fine wirework and quality of execution are consistent with Japanese cloisonné production of the late Meiji to early Taishō period.

A particularly useful comparison can be found in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, which holds a small circular Japanese cloisonné Box with Dragon, dated circa 1900–1925 (Meiji to Taishō period). Like this example, it features a five-clawed dragon and cloud decoration.

The five-clawed dragon has historic associations with Imperial symbolism, but it was also employed on high-quality Japanese decorative wares. No Imperial provenance is claimed for this piece.

Condition

Very good antique condition.

There is light age-related wear and rubbing to the gilt-coloured metal mounts, consistent with age and use. No obvious significant losses to the enamel are visible.

Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.

Approximate dimensions

• Diameter: 8 cm
• Height: 3.5 cm

A particularly attractive example of Japanese cloisonné, combining a highly collectible dragon subject with exceptionally detailed wirework and extensive decoration.

Ideal for a collection of Japanese cloisonné, Meiji and Taishō decorative arts, antique enamels or Asian works of art.