Japanese Cloisonné Inkwell

This Japanese cloisonné inkwell features a domed, hinged lid and a stand with splayed, arched legs. The decoration includes floral, bamboo, butterfly, and bird motifs, all executed in cloisonné enamel with goldstone inclusions.

Key Features:

• Cloisonné Technique: The design is created using the cloisonné technique, where thin wires (cloisons) are soldered onto a metal base to form cells, which are then filled with enamel.
• Motifs:
  • Floral: Stylized floral patterns are prominent, including chrysanthemums and other traditional Japanese flowers.
  • Bamboo: Bamboo motifs are also visible, representing resilience and flexibility in Japanese culture.
  • Butterfly: A large butterfly is featured on the lid, symbolizing transformation and beauty.
  • Bird: A bird motif is also present, adding to the naturalistic theme.
• Goldstone: Goldstone inclusions are visible throughout the enamel, creating a sparkling effect and adding depth and texture to the design.
• Wirework: The wirework is meticulously executed, with precise placement and fine detailing.
• Color Palette: The color palette is rich and vibrant, featuring a range of enamel colors typical of Japanese cloisonné.
• Kyoto School Characteristics: The inkwell exhibits several characteristics associated with the Kyoto school of cloisonné:
  • Naturalistic Motifs: The use of floral, bamboo, butterfly, and bird motifs is a hallmark of the Kyoto school, which favored naturalistic themes.
  • Fine Wirework: The precise and delicate wirework is another characteristic of Kyoto cloisonné.
  • Use of Goldstone: The inclusion of goldstone in the enamel is a technique often associated with Kyoto artisans.

The Kyoto School of Cloisonné:

The Kyoto school of cloisonné emerged during the Meiji era (1868-1912) and became renowned for its high-quality cloisonné wares. It was characterized by:

• Naturalistic Themes: Artists of the Kyoto school often drew inspiration from nature, depicting flowers, birds, insects, and landscapes in their designs.
• Fine Wirework: They were known for their meticulous and delicate wirework, creating intricate patterns and detailed representations.
• Innovative Techniques: Kyoto artisans experimented with new techniques and materials, including the use of goldstone and other inclusions to enhance the visual appeal of their work.
• High-Quality Enamels: They used high-quality enamels with a rich and vibrant color palette.
• Artistic Refinement: The Kyoto school emphasized artistic refinement and aesthetic beauty, creating cloisonné works that were highly prized for their craftsmanship and design.

Ota Tameshiro:

Ota Tameshiro was a prominent cloisonné artist associated with the Kyoto school. He was known for his innovative techniques and his ability to create highly detailed and naturalistic designs. His works often featured floral and bird motifs, and he was particularly skilled in the use of goldstone.

Connection to the Kyoto School:

Based on the characteristics described, this inkwell aligns with the style and techniques associated with the Kyoto school of cloisonné. The naturalistic motifs, fine wirework, and use of goldstone all point to a possible connection to this school. While it’s difficult to definitively attribute the inkwell to Ota Tameshiro, it exhibits the qualities and techniques he was known for.