Massive Pair of Chinese Cloisonne Enamel Figures of Attendants, Qing Dynasty

A Highly Rare Pair of Monumental Qing Dynasty Rouleau Porcelain "Dragon" Vases A Masterful Display of 19th Century Chinese Artistry: The mid-19th century Qing Dynasty marked a period of artistic innovation and imperial grandeur, as exemplified by this rare and monumental pair of Rouleau vases. These exceptional porcelain works, notable for their commanding size and vibrant palette, are a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship that flourished during this era. Embellished with a dynamic tableau of dragons rendered in bold hues of red, green, blue, brown, and yellow, these vases embody both artistic brilliance and the deep cultural symbolism woven into Chinese decorative arts. Artistic Excellence and Symbolism: At the heart of these magnificent vases lies a visual narrative that channels the power and mystique of the dragon, a central motif in Chinese culture symbolizing imperial authority, strength, and cosmic energy. The intricate depiction of dragons in motion, intertwined amidst stylized ocean waves, conveys a sense of fluidity and dynamic movement. Each color used—the crimson reds, verdant greens, striking blues, earthy browns, and golden yellows—has been meticulously applied, reflecting a mastery of the high-fired, polychrome enameling techniques perfected during the Qing Dynasty. The Rouleau form, with its cylindrical body, short neck, and slightly flared mouth, was a favored shape for large-scale vases in the 18th and 19th centuries. The form’s structured elegance allowed for expansive decorative panels, serving as an ideal canvas for intricate, multi-layered designs. This pair demonstrates how artisans skillfully balanced the flowing movement of the dragons with the rhythmic motifs of waves, resulting in a harmonious composition that engages the viewer from every angle. Craftsmanship and Technique: These vases represent the pinnacle of porcelain artistry achieved under the Qing Dynasty, showcasing techniques that reflect centuries of refined craftsmanship. The precision in the application of overglaze enamels and the expert manipulation of kiln temperatures to achieve vibrant and consistent coloration are indicative of the expertise within the imperial kilns. The dragons' scales, rendered with remarkable detail, create a textured effect that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, undulating waves, enhancing the three-dimensional quality of the design. The depth of color and the crisp delineation of each element point to a rigorous and time-intensive process. These qualities signify the involvement of highly skilled artisans who adhered to the imperial standards set by the royal court, ensuring that each piece was a fitting representation of the empire’s wealth and cultural prowess. Historical and Cultural Significance: Vases of this caliber were not merely decorative; they were imbued with profound symbolic meaning and often commissioned for imperial use or gifted as prestigious diplomatic offerings. The dragon motif, deeply embedded in Chinese folklore and philosophy, was associated with the emperor himself—known as the "Son of Heaven"—and symbolized his divine right to rule. These vases also reflect the Qing Dynasty's flourishing export trade and the global fascination with Chinese porcelain during the 19th century. European collectors and royal patrons prized such pieces for their artistry and the exoticism they represented, contributing to a legacy that elevated Chinese porcelain to a revered status in the annals of decorative art history. Provenance and Collectability: The extraordinary scale, exceptional craftsmanship, and rarity of this pair establish them as museum-quality works. Such vases would have held a place of honor in a palace or wealthy estate, reflecting not only the owner’s status but also an appreciation for the profound cultural and artistic traditions of China. Their provenance—potentially tied to an imperial commission or significant historical collection—underscores their importance as objects of study and admiration. Provenance: Private American Collection, acquired in London, circa 1905. Thence by descent to the current owners Solomon Treasure...

A Large Pair of Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Lanterns Attributed to Kaji Tsunekichi, Edo Period, 19th century Japanese cloisonne lanterns were made during the Meiji period, from the late 19th to early 20th century, and were often used as decorative lighting fixtures in temples and shrines. Kaji Tsunekichi (1866-1916) was a Japanese cloisonné artist who was active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was born in Tokyo and learned the art of cloisonné from his father, Kaji Sataro, who was also a cloisonné artist. He was renowned for his mastery of the shippo-yaki technique, which involves creating intricate designs with thin wires on a metal base before filling in the spaces with enamel. Tsunekichi was known for his exceptional technical skills and his ability to create intricate designs with vibrant colors. His works often featured nature motifs, such as flowers, birds, and fish, which were rendered in a highly detailed and naturalistic style. He also experimented with new techniques, such as plique-à-jour, a type of cloisonné that creates a stained-glass effect. Tsunekichi's works were highly prized during his lifetime and continue to be sought after by collectors today. He won numerous awards for his cloisonné creations, including a Gold Medal at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris. His works are characterized by their fine wirework, precise enamel application, and attention to detail. Some of Tsunekichi's most famous works include a pair of large cloisonné vases...

An Exquisite Pair Of Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Vases with Chrysanthemum Blossoms, Attributed to Hayashi, Meiji Period. Experience the exquisite craftsmanship of the Meiji period wit...

A large pair of Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Double Dragon Vases, 19th century. Japanese cloisonne enamel dragon vases are highly ...

Two massive late Qing cloisonné enamel models of cranes Chinese, circa 1900 Measures: Height 187cm, width 52cm, depth 50cm These extraordinary Chin...

Pair of Qing Dynasty gilt and incised bronze elephants with gray cloisonné from the 19th Century. The elephants are carrying cloisonné vases with gilt lion head ring handles. The har...

Large Chinese Cloisonne enamel bowl, Qing Dynasty Exceptional and finely decorated Chinese cloisonne punch bowl with gilt metal foot and rim. The bowl has slightly flaring sides ...

A pair of Chinese Ming Dynasty glazed earthenware figure of Attendant The condition of these 5 century old glazed pottery tomb figures is outstand...