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A Fine Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Box and Cover, in the Manner of Hayashi Kodenji
Meiji period (1868–1912)
Of rectangular form with gently rounded corners, worked throughout in exceptionally fine
silver wire of varying gauges, the differing thicknesses used with great control
to lend depth and definition to the design.
The cover finely decorated with a naturalistic autumnal garden scene of
two birds, one perched upon craggy rockwork and another in flight, amongst luxuriant chrysanthemums (kiku) and other flowering plants,
the blossoms rendered in tones of orange, russet, cream and blue, interspersed with dense foliage
in graduated shades of green and turquoise, the composition continuing across the sides of the box,
all reserved on a very dark midnight-blue enamel ground, almost black in appearance,
subtly highlighted with goldstone.
The exceptionally fine wirework is particularly evident in the delineation of the birds’ plumage,
flower petals, leaves and contours of the rockwork, the use of wires of differing gauges enhancing
the modelling and depth of the composition.
The interior is finished in a lustrous dark chocolate-brown enamel,
the rims mounted in white metal.
The refinement of the wirework, restrained palette and naturalistic treatment of the decoration
are closely related to the work of Hayashi Kodenji.
Dimensions:13 cm long × 10 cm wide × 5 cm high
Condition:Very good overall condition. The enamels retain a strong glossy surface and the decoration remains
remarkably well preserved. No damage or restoration observed.
