This impressive Japanese cloisonné charger was created during the Meiji period and displays the extraordinary decorative refinement that made Japanese enamels highly sought after by European and American collectors in the late nineteenth century. Executed on a large scale, the composition depicts a pheasant family gathered within a stylized landscape of flowering branches, rocks, and flowing water, all rendered against a vibrant turquoise ground.
The scene is enriched by intricate wirework and finely detailed enamel decoration. The colorful plumage of the birds contrasts beautifully with the surrounding foliage, while the carefully balanced composition demonstrates the exceptional craftsmanship associated with Japanese export cloisonné of the period. Decorative floral motifs continue onto the reverse, creating a fully ornamented object intended to be appreciated from every angle.
Particularly notable is the unusually large diameter of the charger, a feature seldom encountered in surviving examples. The piece possesses strong decorative presence whether displayed on a wall, stand, or within a collection of Asian decorative arts.
Details:
Dimensions:
Diameter: 49 cm (19.3 in)
Height: 7 cm (2.8 in)
Condition:
Good antique condition with age-related wear. The front remains very well preserved with no significant enamel losses observed. Minor enamel loss is visible along a section of the rim, exposing the metal beneath. The charger shows slight age-related distortion and is not perfectly symmetrical. The reverse displays expected wear, including a small dent to the foot area and localized enamel loss near the base. Overall, the enamel decoration remains remarkably well preserved for its age. (The photographs form an integral part of the description.)
A well-placed antique does more than decorate a room - it gives it authorship. Against a contemporary interior, older objects introduce texture, balance and a sense of permanence that cannot be replicated by newly made pieces alone.
This is the principle behind the LÜRON selection. We look for works that carry historical character with ease, and that feel as convincing in a Paris apartment as they do in a more modern architectural setting.
