Inkipedia
Japanese Cloisonné Inkwell
| Categories | Enameled Metal, Far East / Oriental |
| Type | Cloisonné |
| Material | Enameled Brass/Bronze/Metal |
| Markings | Unmarked |
| Manufacturer | Undetermined |
| Origin | Japan |
| Date or Era | circa 1900 |
| Measuring | 2” x 2” x 3” high |
- Technique: Cloisonné
- Confirmation: One can identify this as Cloisonné (shippo-yaki in Japanese) by looking closely at the surface. The design is created by thin metal wires (cloisons) soldered onto the metal body to create small cells. These cells are then filled with colored glass enamel paste, fired, and polished.
- The Wirework: The background features a dense pattern of tiny wire circles or spirals on a dark background. This is a labor-intensive technique often used to add texture and prevent the enamel from cracking during firing.
- Origin: Japanese (Meiji Export)
- Design Clues: While Chinese cloisonné often features formal lotus scrolls and heavy bronze wires, this piece displays characteristics typical of Japanese export ware from the turn of the 20th century:
- Motifs: The decoration features butterflies and small white five-petaled flowers (likely plum blossoms or cherry blossoms). The butterfly is a classic Japanese motif symbolizing joy and longevity.
- The “Swag” Pattern: The flowers and butterflies are set within festive, curtain-like swags or bunting that drape down the sides. This design element, mimicking fabric or theater curtains, was popular in Meiji decorative arts intended for Western homes.
- Color Palette: The use of the deep cobalt blue combined with the speckled turquoise and white is a classic Meiji palette.
- Form and Function
- Western Shape: The square, cube-like shape with a domed lid is a distinctly Western form. Traditional Japanese calligraphy used an inkstone (suzuri) to grind solid ink, not a liquid inkwell. This shows the piece was made specifically for export to Europe or America to be used on a Victorian desk.
- Components:
- It retains its original white ceramic/porcelain insert.
- The base is enameled in a mottled turquoise, which is standard for the undersides of these export pieces.
- Age
- Date: Circa 1890–1910 (Late Meiji Period).
- This was the “Golden Age” of Japanese cloisonné production, where workshops in Nagoya and Tokyo produced vast quantities of high-quality enamelware to meet Western demand following Japan’s opening to the world.
Sold for $63 in November 2025
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