Antique Chinese Cloisonné Dragon Dish c.1900 Black Enamel 9.5cm

Antique Chinese Cloisonné Dragon Dish – c.1900

A striking small Chinese cloisonné enamel dish decorated with a colourful coiling dragon against a deep black ground filled with intricate cloud scrolls.

The dragon is worked in vibrant yellow, turquoise, green, red and white enamels, surrounded by traditional cloud motifs and depicted alongside the flaming pearl, a classic motif in Chinese decorative art.

The reverse is equally attractive, finished in turquoise-blue enamel with scrolling floral wirework. The exposed metal rim has developed an attractive aged patina.

The construction, decoration and enamel palette are consistent with Chinese cloisonné work of the late Qing to early Republic period, broadly circa 1890–1930. It is unmarked, so the dating should be regarded as an informed attribution rather than a definitive date.

Measurements

* Diameter: 9.5 cm
* Height: 1.5 cm
* Weight: 52g

Condition

Antique condition with age-related surface wear, pitting and imperfections to the enamel.

There are areas of enamel loss to the underside around the outer edge, exposing the underlying metal. These are clearly shown in the photographs and have been taken into account when pricing the piece.

The decorated face remains highly attractive and displays very well.

A characterful example of early Chinese cloisonné work, particularly appealing for collectors of Chinese enamel, dragon imagery and small Asian decorative antiques.