Description
From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to present this fine cloisonné enamel vase by Tamura, dating to the Showa period, circa 1940.
The vase of tapered cylindrical form with a slender waisted neck and rounded rim, the vase features a delicate cream ground decorated with a vibrant butterfly in flight above blossoming flowers. The design combines traditional wired cloisonné with musen (wireless) techniques, creating a sense of fluidity and depth across the surface.
The Cloisonné Enamel vase is mounted with silvered rims at the top and bottom, complementing the design and highlighting the quality of the finish. The base bears a two-character mark for Tamura, one of the most highly regarded cloisonné artists of the mid 20th century. Known for modernising the cloisonné tradition, Tamura’s cloisonné is known for its technical precision, often combining traditional forms with modern enamel techniques including both wired and wireless methods.
This Japanese cloisonné vase is an excellent example of mid-century decorative arts from the Showa era, blending modern aesthetics with classical Japanese design elements.
More about the maker TAMURA (TAMURA-SHIPPO)
Tamura shippo is a long established cloisonné workshop based in Shippo-chō, Ama City, Aichi Prefecture, an area historically renowned for Japanese enamelwork. The company has been producing cloisonné wares since 1883, refining its techniques across the Meiji (1868-1912), Taishō (1912-1926), and Shōwa (1926-1989) periods. Tamura became known for its clean, modern approach to cloisonné, often using vibrant colour palettes and combining both traditional wired and wireless techniques. The company continues to operate today, producing a range of enamel objects including vases, boxes, and jewellery.
MORE ABOUT THE PERIOD SHOWA PERIOD (1926–1989)
The Showa era, under Emperor Hirohito, was a time of dramatic change in Japan. Spanning pre-war militarism, post-war recovery, and the “Japanese Economic Miracle,” the period reshaped both culture and craftsmanship. In the arts, traditional skills such as cloisonné, ceramics, and lacquerware adapted to modern tastes, balancing heritage with new design influences. Today, Showa-period works are valued for their blend of tradition and innovation, offering collectors a direct link to Japan’s transformation in the 20th century.
For further information see our article on The Shōwa Period in Japan: From Turbulence to Transformation.
MORE 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.
MORE ABOUT THE MATERIAL 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
24.5cm High x 12.25cm Diameter (9.65 x 4.8 inches)
Condition
Excellent
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.
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