Antique Japanese Cloisonné Vase Pair Meiji Period c1890 Butterfly Floral 12cm

Beautiful matching pair of antique Japanese cloisonné enamel vases, dating to the late Meiji period, circa 1880–1900.

These unusual small cabinet vases have flattened rounded bodies with long slender necks and are decorated with an intricate combination of floral motifs and fine scrolling wirework.

Particularly attractive are the shimmering coppery aventurine-style enamel panels, which catch the light beautifully and contrast with the turquoise blue, green, pink, cream, red and black enamels.

The necks are divided into alternating red and dark enamel panels decorated with delicate flowers, while the bodies feature floral reserves surrounded by an exceptionally busy spiral-wire ground.

They are a genuine matching pair, although their handmade construction accounts for the slight difference in weight.

Approximate measurements:

Height: 12.5 cm
Diameter at widest point: 8 cm
Weight: 94 g and 102 g

Condition:

Antique condition with age-related wear and areas of enamel damage/loss, particularly around the lower body and borders. There is also cracking and surface wear consistent with their age.

The close-up photographs form an important part of the condition description and show these areas clearly.

Despite the losses, the pair remain extremely decorative and display beautifully. Their age, small scale and intricate workmanship give them considerable character.

Dating: Late Meiji period, approximately 1880–1900.

A charming surviving pair of Japanese cloisonné cabinet vases and an attractive addition to a collection of Meiji-period Japanese decorative arts.

Please study all photographs carefully as they form part of the description.