Description
From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to offer this exceptional fifteen-piece Cloisonné Enamel Tea Set dating to the late Meiji period, circa 1910. Executed in the Chinese style and richly detailed throughout, the set comprises six teacups with matching saucers, a lidded teapot, a lidded sugar pot, and a milk jug.
Each piece has been masterfully inlaid with fine cloisonné wirework in a range of gauges, forming a profusion of roundels, fan motifs, and cloud shapes containing miniature landscape scenes, symbolic flora, and stylised fauna. Decorative themes include irises, cherry blossoms, maple leaves, mythical dragons, and auspicious bats, all set against a rich ground of gold spiral enamel and bordered with ‘fish scale’ cloisonné in mottled yellow-green.
The interiors, foot rims, and handles are fully gilded, showcasing the exceptional finish and quality of the work. Both lidded vessels are crowned with chrysanthemum (kiku) finials, a motif of imperial significance echoed in the multicoloured enamel kiku used throughout the design.
A complete and well-preserved group, it offers a detailed example of cloisonné work from the late Meiji period, with strong export appeal and finely executed decorative themes.
Provenance
Accompanying the tea set is an original headed letter from the Kyoto Gallery of Oriental Art, Brussels, dated 1985. The letter (translated from French) describes the set as “a standard cloisonné coffee service (yusen-jippo type) with gold copper wire. The smooth sections are also gilt. Very detailed and refined decoration of fans and chrysanthemums in the Chinese manner (entirely worked surface), but with traditional Japanese motifs executed in multi-coloured enamel. Japan, early 20th century.” The valuation provided at the time was FB 150,000 (equivalent to approximately £3,180.90 GBP in 1985). The letter is signed by a named antiques expert. While private information has been redacted for privacy, the original unaltered document will accompany the piece upon sale.
ABOUT THE MATERIAL 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.
ABOUT THE 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.
ABOUT THE FLOWER CHRYSANTHEMUM (KIKU)
The chrysanthemum, known as kiku (菊) in Japan, is one of the country’s most important symbols. Introduced from China in the 5th century, it quickly became associated with longevity, renewal, and autumn. By the 12th century, Emperor Go-Toba adopted the chrysanthemum as the crest of the Imperial family, where it remains today as the Imperial Seal of Japan, also called the Chrysanthemum Throne. The flower appears widely in art, poetry, festivals, and design, celebrated for both its seasonal beauty and its links to the virtues of loyalty, resilience, and honour.
For further information see our article Chrysanthemums in Japanese Culture: The Imperial Flower of Autumn.
Condition
Very Good antique condition
WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE?
At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide.
Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com.
With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee.
We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production.
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