Of elegant shouldered, tapering form, each vase worked in fine silver wire and decorated with sparrows in flight above bamboo and wild chrysanthemums, set against a softly toned brownish-grey enamel ground. The composition is delicately balanced, with the birds rendered in animated poses that lend lightness and movement to the surface.
Both vases feature a double-walled neck, a technically demanding construction associated with high-quality Meiji cloisonné. The neck and foot rims are finely decorated with stylised yellow and lilac flowerheads reserved against a scrolling cloud-pattern ground, providing refined ornamental contrast.
The restrained palette, subtle shading, and confident silver-wire work are consistent with cloisonné produced in the circle of Hayashi Kodenji, one of the most accomplished workshops of the period.
Condition:
In good condition, commensurate with age. Minor enamel discolouration to the reverse. No chips, cracks, or restoration observed.
