Description
Meiji Period (1868-1912)
From our Japanese collection, we are delighted to present this exceptional pair of Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Vases by the Hayashi School, dating to the Meiji Period (1868–1912).
The pair is finely crafted with waisted hexagonal bodies, tapering necks, and rounded rims, each decorated upon a deep midnight-blue glaze with opposing dragons. The dragons are intricately worked in silver wire of varying gauges, their scales and tendrils executed with remarkable detail. Polychrome enamelling adds dimension, enhancing the lifelike presence of the mythical beasts across the body of each vase. Both vases retain their original silvered rims and bases, one still bearing its sales label alongside the maker’s stamp for the Hayashi School and cataloguing sticker. Importantly, they are housed within their original silk-lined Tomobako (wooden storage box) with single partition and cushioned interior. The exterior bears the inscription 七宝家 林製 (Shippo Studio, Hayashi made), alongside the Takahara & Co retailer’s mark, confirming the vases were produced in the Hayashi workshop and sold through Takahara & Co.
This pair represents the height of Meiji artistry and cloisonné work during the so called golden era and are representative of Japanese culture in subtle art form.
Takahara & Co
were located in Kyoto and a known manufacturer and retailer of shippo-yaki (cloisonne). There company mark contains two mountains crossing over which looks like a stylised capital M.
Hayashi Kodenji
was a student to Hayashi Shogoro (1835-1896) who played a pivotal role in training students in the art of cloisonne was a central figure in the cloisonné enamel industry well into the 20th century. Kodenji was the founder and head of the Shipo-cho enamelers guild and in 1894 he opened a school to train cloisonne workers that operated until 1907. He ran a showroom in Nagoya from 1907-1914 and also operated a sales branch in London. As a master of cloisonne wears he went on to win medals at expositions in Nuremberg 1885, Chicago 1893, Paris 1889 and St. Louis 1904 and finally a price at the Liege in 1905. He was awarded the Medal of the Green Ribbon in Japan (Ryokujuhosho) in 1902. Kodenji I went onto produce cloisonne wears with his son Suguemon (1859-1922) known as Kodenji II with virtually no easy distinction between either maker. They were both followed by Hayashi Tomijiro, Kodenji III (1879-1944) and Kurakichi Kodenji IV, (1904-1982).
For further information see our makers and retailers page on Hayashi Kodenji.
MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)
The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art.
For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation.
CLOISONNE
Cloisonné is a traditional decorative art that involves applying thin metal wires to form compartments (cloisons) on a metal surface, which are then filled with colourful enamel. After multiple firings and polishings, the result is a vibrant, glass-like finish with intricate designs. The technique has roots in ancient China but was perfected in Japan during the Meiji period (1868–1912), often referred to as the Golden Age of Cloisonné. Japanese artists developed advanced methods such as musen shippō (wireless cloisonné) and shōtai shippō (plique-à-jour), creating seamless, naturalistic, and even translucent effects. Highly prized for its precision, artistry, and beauty, Japanese cloisonné is regarded as one of the finest forms of enamel craftsmanship in the world and remains highly collectible today.
For further information see our article The Art of Japanese Cloisonné: History, Craftsmanship, and the Golden Age.
Enamel (vitreous enamel)
also known as porcelain enamel, is a material made by fusing powdered glass to a substrate by firing, usually between 750 and 850 °C. The powder melts, flows, and then hardens to a smooth, durable vitreous coating. The word vitreous comes from the Latin vitreus, meaning “glassy”.
Measurements
15.3cm High x 5.5cm Diameter (6 x 2.17 inches)
Condition
Excellent, no damage and no restoration. One original pin head enamel pop from firing, not damage.
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