Object Description
Pair of antique Japanese cloisonné enamel vases with French ormolu mounts
Japanese and French, Late 19th Century
Height 30.5cm, width 22cm, depth 17cm
Virtually identical in design, this exquisite pair of vases combines Japanese cloisonné enamel pieces with French ormolu mounts. The vases utilise a sky-blue ground, overlayed with charming ducks amongst flowers and foliage. The cloisonné enamelling is exceptional, contrasting the colourful flora and wildlife with the golden, eye-catching cloisons.
The vases are applied with ormolu mounts to the apex and base. Surmounting the vases are handled mounts, which feature pierced decoration and Greek key designs. The twin scrolling handles are each applied with a small figure in a conical hat. The flared bases feature similar pierced and meander decoration, and stand on stylised elephant feet.
These vases are a fantastic example of the combination pieces made in Europe during the 19th century, which embellished Eastern imported wares with Western-style additions. This pair synthesise the style of two different countries, creating fabulous cross-cultural pieces that are highly desirable.