Fine Pair of Antique Japanese Meiji Cloisonné Phoenix Vases

A beautiful and highly decorative matched pair of antique Japanese cloisonné enamel vases, dating to the late Meiji period, circa 1890–1910. Standing 20.5cm tall, this striking pair is of elegant ovoid form and displays an unusually rich and sophisticated combination of colours and ornament. Each vase is extensively decorated with alternating elongated shield-shaped panels, the principal yellow-ground reserves depicting the magnificent Hō-ō, or Japanese phoenix, with dramatically outstretched wings and long, flowing tail feathers amongst scrolling foliage. The phoenix is an important motif in Japanese decorative art, traditionally associated with virtue, prosperity, peace and good fortune. Alternating with the phoenixes are beautifully executed formalised floral and foliate motifs upon soft pink grounds, all delineated by intricate cloisonné wirework. Particularly attractive is the unusual finely speckled brown enamel ground, which provides a wonderful contrast to the brightly coloured panels. The shoulders are exceptionally decorative, incorporating a broad pale blue band of stylised clouds and flowers beneath a rich red border filled with scrolling foliage and chrysanthemum-like blooms. A further band of petal-shaped ornament surrounds each neck. The combination of russet red, pale blue, pink, yellow, turquoise, white, and muted green enamels is particularly successful, giving the pair a wonderfully sophisticated appearance. The vases are finished with exposed metal rims and bases, which have acquired an attractive natural patination commensurate with their considerable age. Dating from the great period of Japanese cloisonné production during the Meiji era (1868–1912), these were produced at a time when Japanese enamel craftsmen achieved extraordinary technical and artistic standards, with their work becoming enormously desirable throughout Europe and America. Most importantly, the two vases have survived together as a genuine matched pair, making them particularly appealing for display. At approximately 125 years old, they would make a fabulous addition to a collection of Japanese Meiji art, cloisonné, Asian antiques or decorative works of art, whilst being equally impressive displayed within either a traditional or contemporary interior. Attributes: Origin: Japan Period: Meiji Period (1868–1912) Date: Circa 1890–1910 Material: Cloisonné enamel on metal Decoration: Hō-ō / Japanese phoenix, flowers, scrolling foliage and stylised cloud motifs Height: 20.5 cm each Quantity: Matched pair Please study all of the photographs carefully, as these form an integral part of the description and provide the best representation of the condition and exceptional quality of this beautiful pair. ^^ Fast & Free UK Delivery Included^^ *A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) will be provided by artsonline with this piece* Delivery Artsonline UK ships worldwide daily, using only fully insured, priority, and fully tracked delivery services. Great care and much time are taken over the safe transportation of the Fine Art and Antique pieces that we sell. We pack extremely carefully, so you can rest assured that your piece will arrive with you in perfect condition. For larger paintings, antique furniture pieces, and fragile items that can not be sent via the normal postal services, we use professional door-to-door delivery providers, who will always strive to deliver your piece promptly, within approx. 7-14 working days. Returns Policy Artsonline provides a genuine no-quibble 14-day money-back refund policy (excluding the cost of Postage and Packaging).