A Fine Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Vase with Dragon and Waves, Signed Kumeno Teitaro
Meiji Period (c. 1910–1920)
Height: 18 cm Width: 12.5 cm
A superb Japanese cloisonné enamel vase of baluster form, decorated with a dramatic scene of a dragon emerging from stylised crashing waves and ascending through mist and swirling clouds. The surface is worked entirely in yusen (wired) cloisonné, using exceptionally fine silver wires to articulate every detail of the dragon’s sinuous body, the foam of the sea, and the flowing vapours above, all set over a radiant silver foil ground (ginbari) that imbues the surface with a shimmering luminosity.
The dragon is executed in richly translucent enamels of emerald green, turquoise, cobalt blue, and ochre, with precisely segmented scales, claws, and flame-like tendrils that demonstrate both technical precision and artistic sensitivity. The background is particularly striking: beginning at the base with silvery white surf overlaid on ginbari, the colour gradates upward through soft celadon and coral pink, culminating in a deep, glowing crimson at the shoulder and neck. This masterful use of colour and foil creates a dynamic visual depth that shifts beautifully with the light.
The vase is fitted with a shakudō mouth ring—providing a bold, dark contrast to the brightness of the enamel. The base is mounted with a gilt metal foot rim and bears an impressed by Kumeno Teitaro signature one of the leading enamel artists of the Nagoya school. Kumeno is celebrated for his painterly compositions, exceptional control of enamel layering, and innovative use of ginbari.
Condition: Excellent. No damage or restoration observed.
