Antique Japanese Meiji Cloisonné Charger c.1880–1900 Peony & Insect 30.5cm

A beautiful and substantial antique Japanese cloisonné enamel charger dating to the Meiji period, most likely the late 19th century, circa 1880–1900.

Measuring an impressive 30.5 cm (12 inches) in diameter, the charger has a wonderfully vivid turquoise-blue ground decorated with flowering peonies, buds, foliage and a solitary flying insect.

The floral decoration is particularly attractive. The large peony is worked in graduated shades of white, pink and rose, while the second flower is predominantly white with subtle pale green shading. Fine cloison wires delineate individual petals, leaves and stems, giving the decoration a noticeably painterly quality.

The asymmetrical composition and generous areas of uninterrupted blue ground are characteristic of the increasingly naturalistic approach adopted by Japanese cloisonné makers during the Meiji period.

A particularly elaborate geometric and foliate border surrounds the central decoration, worked in deep red, white, green, pale blue and dark enamel.

The reverse is equally interesting and provides further evidence of the workmanship involved. Rather than being left undecorated, the broad reverse border is completely enamelled in turquoise and covered with an extensive pattern of individually formed spiral cloison wires. The recessed centre is also finished in turquoise enamel and enclosed by a substantial metal foot rim.

The charger is unsigned, and I have therefore deliberately avoided attributing it to a particular workshop. Based upon its construction, decorative vocabulary, enamel technique and extensive reverse wirework, I believe it to be Japanese Meiji-period work, most probably dating from circa 1880–1900.

Dimensions

Diameter: 30.5 cm / approximately 12 inches
Depth: 3 cm / approximately 1.2 inches
Weight: 854 g

Condition

Antique condition with age-related surface wear, small firing imperfections, marks and patination consistent with its age.

Importantly, there is an area of old restoration/repair to the turquoise counter-enamel within the recessed central section of the reverse, together with a small associated defect. This is entirely on the underside and does not affect the principal decorated face when displayed.

The restoration has been photographed closely and forms part of the item’s history and condition. Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

The principal decorated face remains highly attractive, with its extraordinarily vibrant turquoise ground and finely worked floral decoration.

A substantial and highly decorative example of Japanese Meiji cloisonné, particularly striking displayed upright as a cabinet or wall charger.

Display stand shown in the photographs is not included.