This exquisitely intricate Totai Shippo piece is dated to c.1880 from the Japanese Meiji era (1868-1912 ).
Totai Shippo is the technique of applying Cloisonné enamel to ceramic believed to have been discovered by Sukamoto Kaisuke (b.1828 - d.1887) some time around 1868. Traditional Cloisonné of using thin wire or metal to contain different coloured enamels applied to a metal vessel itself is already a revered technique. Totai Shippo elevates the technique to another level when you consider the detailed wired sections of this piece is as small as 1-2mm in width.
This particular piece bears two 'faces', a panel on each side that displays the detailed design of butterflies, Chrysanthemums and Anemones in tones of Dusted Powder and Cobalt Blue, Oxblood Red and Apple Green. Encircling the panels are features of Sakura buds and blossom interwoven with the Teal patterned background.
This excellent work of art makes for a superbly decorative and highly collectable art feature.
CONDITION
Very Good. There is age-related wear to the enamel and crazing on the non-enamelled sections that is commensurable with the age of the piece, please see photos as they form part of the condition report.
MEASUREMENTS
Height: c. 3.9" / 10 cm by c. 3.4" / 8.6 cm diameter (across widest point). Base diameter: c. 1.9" / 4.7 cm. Rim diameter: c. 1.6" / 4.1 cm. Unpackaged weight: c. 0.2 kg / 220 g
NOTES
Jar will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.
A BIT OF HISTORY
Japanese Cloisonne enamelware is a technique introduced to Japan around the Tokugawa period during the 16th century.
Cloisonne or 'Cloisonné' are metalwork objects with decoration that is applied by creating separating sections using wire or thin metal. The sections are filled with different coloured enamels to create a visual image or pattern and the whole piece be fired multiple times to realise the colours.