Cloisonné plate, Japanese (Meiji), circa 1895 - 1900
Cloisonné is a decorative art technique involving metalwork and enamel work. Metal wire is soldered to a metal base, creating designs and cellular spaces. These spaces or "cloisons" (a French word meaning "compartments") are filled with enamel paste. The object is then fired in a kiln, ground down to a smooth surface, and then polished.
Historically, cloisonné was produced in China and Japan as early as the 14th century. It was extremely popular in the Victorian era and was produced on a very large scale until World War I. Cloisonné is a beautiful example of Asian artistic excellence.
Glanmore's Couldery Collection contains approximately 65 pieces of cloisonné dating from the mid-1800s to the early 1930s. Bertram and Cecilia Couldery were avid collectors of cloisonné, and the later pieces suggest that Ann (Docter) Salaman (who inherited the Couldery estate) was as well.
The collection also contains many varieties of styles ranging between domestic cloisonné from China and Japan and pieces that were created to cater to a Western market.
To see more pieces in Glanmore's collections please visit our online database!
Vase, circa 1850.
Made in China, this piece is decorated in the Ming style with Buddhist Lions.
Bowl, circa 1800s
This piece was made in China. Decorated in the Ming style it features images of lotus flowers and a phoenix.
Vase, circa 1870
This piece was made in China. It is decorated in the Ming style with scroll patterns, blossoms and Buddhist emblems.
Vase, circa 1890-1900
This piece was made in Japan during the Meiji Period. It features images of a phoenix and two dragons.
Jardinière, ca. 1890
This piece was made in China. It features six panels decorated with dragons and birds.
Vase, circa 1890
This piece was made in Japan. It is decorated with images of flowers and birds on an unusual salmon coloured background.
Jardinière, circa 1895-1900
This piece was made in Japan. It features images of peonies and wisteria blooms.
Teapot, circa 1900
This piece was made in Japan. It has a hexagonal shape and is covered with an intricate flower pattern.
Vase, circa 1900
This piece was made in China during the Qing Dynasty. It has intricate cellular designs and a large floral pattern.
Vase, circa 1900
This piece was made in China. It features images of yellow dragons.
Box, circa 1900
This box was made in China. It features images of lotus flowers and dragons.
Vase, circa 1900
This vase was made in China. It features vibrant textile patterns and floral roundels.
Vase, circa 1900
This vase was made in Japan. It features geometric designs, flowers, butterflies and birds.
Tea Caddy, circa 1900-1910
This caddy was made in China. It is decorated with intricate “cloisons” (French for “compartments”) and a delicate floral pattern.